Perennial

Acanthus mollis

Bear's Breech
Low Maintenance Good for cut flowers badge Hardiness H6

Acanthus mollis, or bear’s breech, is a vigorous herbaceous perennial flowering from May to August. It produces glossy, deeply cut green leaves and tall stems topped with white flowers set in dusky purple bracts. Growing 1–1.5m in both height and spread, it is drought tolerant and valued for both garden display and cut flower use. Its bold foliage and summer blooms bring strong structure and Mediterranean charm to Irish borders.

SKU: ACA-2L-TR8V7U

Carefully packed & shipped
Quality Guaranteed
Source:
Flowering Months
Jan J
Feb F
Mar M
Apr A
May M
Jun J
Jul J
Aug A
Sep S
Oct O
Nov N
Dec D
Size
Max Height
1.0 m — 1.5 m
Max Spread
1.0 m — 1.5 m
Growth Habit
Tall, narrow growth habit with strongly vertical main stems.
Planting Position
Sunlight i Indicates how much direct sunlight the plant needs each day. Full sun means 6+ hours, part shade is filtered or morning sun, and full shade is little to no direct sun.
Full Sun Full Shade Part Shade
Aspect i Aspect refers to the direction the planting spot faces (north, south, east or west). It affects light levels, warmth and exposure.
North South East West
Exposure i Exposure describes how sheltered or exposed a plant’s position is, particularly to wind and weather.
Exposed / Sheltered
Hardiness i Hardiness indicates how well a plant tolerates cold conditions outdoors. Higher ratings generally mean greater frost tolerance.
(−20 to −15 °C) Very cold-hardy
Ideal Soil Conditions
Soil Type i Soil type describes the texture of the soil (clay, sand, loam, chalk). This affects drainage, nutrients and how roots grow.
Chalk Loam Sand
Soil Moisture i Soil moisture tells you how wet or dry the soil should be for best growth. Match this to your garden conditions for healthier plants.
Free draining
Soil pH i Soil pH measures how acidic or alkaline the soil is. It affects nutrient availability and can impact plant growth.
Acid Alkaline Neutral
Plant Uses & Merits
Uses
  • Architectural
  • Flower Borders
Merits
  • Drought Resistant
  • Generally pest-free
  • Low Maintenance
  • Good for Cut Flowers