Bear's Breeches, also known by its scientific name Acanthus mollis, is a perennial plant native to the Mediterranean region. It's known for its striking foliage and tall, dramatic flower spikes.
Here are some key features of Bear's Breeches:
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Foliage: The leaves are large, glossy, and deeply lobed, giving the plant a tropical appearance. They're usually dark green in color.
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Flowers: It produces tall spikes of hooded, white or light pink flowers with purple bracts in the summer. The flower spikes can reach up to 6 feet in height.
Type: |
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Origins: |
Mediterranean |
Height: |
3' - 4' |
Spread: |
2' - 3' |
Spacing: |
2’ |
USDA Hardiness Zone: |
5 - 9 |
Culture: |
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Bloom Color: |
White |
Season of Interest: |
MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Low Maintenance. Regular water. Cannot tolerate wet soils. No serious pests or diseases. Watch for snails and slugs. Can be an aggressive spreader.
LANDSCAPE USES: Specimen or Mass Plantings, Borders, Wildlife Gardens, Foundation Plantings, and Containers.
COMPANION PLANTS: Bergenia, Coral Bells, Foam Flower
IMAGE: Photo by Leonora (Ellie) Enking, Acanthus spinosus, (2) Photo by Patrick Standish, Spiny Bear's Breech, (3) Sarah's Yard, Acanthus spinosus
*As plants have ranges in appearance they may not appear as the images shown.