About
Acanthus dioscoridis is a versatile perennial that can reach heights of up to 40 cm. It features a robust, spreading root system that generates clusters of narrow, lobed leaves that are spiny in texture and dark green, measuring between 8 to 20 cm in length. From late spring through late summer, this plant produces upright flower spikes adorned with pink blooms and green bracts.
About the genus
Acanthus consists of sturdy herbaceous perennials characterized by their lobed leaves and upright flower spikes featuring two-lipped blooms accompanied by vibrant bracts.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Mediterranean climate plants, Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- Iraq, Iran
Care notes
- Cultivation
- The ideal soil is a deep, fertile, well-drained loam but it will grow in most soils and has good drought tolerance. Has the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well
- Pruning
- Cut down old flower stems
- Propagation
- Propagate by division or by root cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to powdery mildews