Overview
Acanthus mollis is a columnar upright herbaceous perennial in the genus Acanthus, part of the Acanthaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 1-1.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Acanthus mollis grows best in full shade, full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. It is drought resistant and low maintenance.
About
Acanthus mollis, commonly known as bear's breeches, sea dock, bear's foot plant, sea holly, gator plant or oyster plant, is a species of plant in the family Acanthaceae and is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a leafy, clump-forming perennial herb, with a rosette of relatively large, lobed or toothed leaves, and purplish and white flowers on an erect spike. It grows to around 1-1.5 metres tall and 1-1.5 metres wide, carrying deciduous foliage. Grow it in full shade, full sun and partial shade and most soil types. It tolerates soil of any pH, well-drained conditions and south-facing, north-facing, west-facing and east-facing aspects.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Acanthus mollis
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Acanthus
- Sunlight
- Full shade, 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
Plant details
Acanthus mollis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 1-1.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Acanthus mollis?
Acanthus mollis prefers full shade, full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Acanthus mollis need?
Acanthus mollis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How big does Acanthus mollis grow?
Acanthus mollis reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 1-1.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
