Acanthus mollis

Bear's Breech

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.

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

Acanthus mollis Description

Planting Guide for Acanthus mollis

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Care guide for Acanthus mollis

Items must be returned within 30 days after receiving your order. Items must be returned in the same condition in which they were received, be unworn/unused, have any tags still attached, and include all the original packaging.

Uses for Acanthus mollis & Garden Styles it suits

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