Acanthus spinosus

Common name: bear's breeches
Acanthus spinosus
See all photos (0)
Type:
Herbaceous perennial
USDA hardiness zones:
5-9

This species of bear's breeches is a clump-forming perennial which is grown as much for its attractive foliage as for its architecturally bold flower spikes. Features pure white, snapdragon-like flowers enclosed (hooded and subtended) by spiny, reddish-purple bracts and arranged in vertical rows on substantial flower spikes which rise well above the foliage mound to 3-4' tall. Blooms from late spring into mid summer. Deeply-cut, arching, glossy green, spiny, thistle-like leaves (2-3' long) form an ornamental mound of long-stalked, basal foliage which usually remains attractive throughout the g... more »

  • Full sun to part shade
  • Medium
  • Low

Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerates wide range of soils except poorly-drained ones. Appreciates some afternoon shade in hot summer climates such as St. Louis. Not reliably winter hardy throughout USDA Zone 5 where a winter mulch is advisable. Easily grown from seed or may be propagated by root cuttings best taken in early spring. Can spread aggressively by creeping rootstocks, particularly in loose soils. Can be slow to establish in the garden, but somewhat difficult to eradicate once established since small sections of root left behind can sprout new plants.

Powered by Missouri Botanical Garden
lfin replied almost 2 years ago
On the YGS Facebook page 'What Plant is This" (2/18/2011).   Immortalized in 427 AD- the newest of the classical columns.  It's a flourish atop the 'bundled reeds' or "fascia" of the newest Greek column- this ephemeral ornamental is symbol of the Vestal Virgins in Rome. Shade-grown, in bloom it looks like a fountain and was found next to a young girl's grave which inspired the Corinthian Column. Its shiny, spiked leaves are used as an emollient to relieve skin inflammations.It's common name in various languages is associated with bears and oysters-but no one is quite sure why! Name it!

Add your comment here