Acanthus mollis

Bear's Breach

£11.95

Acanthus mollis, or bear’s breeches, is a striking perennial with bold, deeply lobed, glossy green foliage and tall spires of purple-tinged white flowers in summer. Growing up to 1.5m tall and wide, it thrives in sun or partial shade with well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, it adds architectural interest to borders and is a favourite for pollinators and wildlife-friendly gardens.

Item code:
AMO-2
Pot size:
2Ltr pot
£11.95
Origin: Mediterranean regions of Southern Europe and North Africa
Genus: Acanthus
Species / Cultivar: mollis
Common Name: Bear's Breach
Synonym: Acanthus spinosisimus Host, Acanthus lusitanicus hort.
Soil: Well drained
Soil that does not show much signs of moisture, either visibly or when handled.
Growth Rate: Fast
Expect to see prolific growth, especially during growing season.
Water Requirement: Low
Will grow in a drier position and is unlikely to need regular watering once established.
Maintenance: Low
Minimal skill or input needed beyond the basics, a very independent plant.
Situation: Full Sun to Full Shade
Tolerates the complete range of light levels, a very accommodating plant!
Eventual Height: 1-1.5m
The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.
Eventual Spread: 1-1.5m
The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.
Hardiness: Fully Hardy
Will survive unprotected outdoors in most areas of the UK, even in the harshest winters.
Habit: Deciduous
Sheds all its foliage annually, so for a period of the year it will be without foliage.
Lifecycle: Perennial
This plant is persistant and does not die off after flowering. It will return each season indefinitely, if provided with suitable growing conditions.
Care & Size Guidance

Care & Size Guidance

Acanthus mollis thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during dry periods. This hardy perennial grows to a height of 150cm and a similar spread. It requires minimal pruning, only needing occasional trimming of spent flowers and dead leaves.

For best results, plant it in a sheltered location to protect from strong winds. It is relatively low-maintenance, making it an excellent addition to borders or shaded areas.

Reviews

There are no reviews yet.