Acanthus spinosus (Bear’s Breeches)

 

 

 

 

 

Large deeply dissected, glossy green leaves tipped with sharp spines form a dense basal rosette. In mid-summer, the plant's full architecture is on display with bold upright flower spikes covered in white turtle-head blooms emerging beneath veined purple bracts. This Mediterranean beauty inspired the Greek Corinthian style column capital design. Although it may take a few seasons to establish, the result is well worth the wait.  

  • Plant Patent: n/a 
  • Container Size:  
  • USDA Zone: 5-9 
  • Height: 3-4’ 
  • Spread: 2-3’ 
  • Sun Exposure: full sun to part shade 
  • Soil Moisture: average 
  • Bloom Time: summer 
  • Bloom Color: pink-mauve 
  • Foliage Color: green 
  • US Native: no 
  • Wildlife Benefit:  
  • Notes: rabbit tolerant, deer tolerant
  • Image Credit: