About
Acanthus mollis is a robust species featuring broad, glossy dark green foliage that is divided into lobes. In late summer, it produces tall spikes adorned with white blossoms complemented by dark purple 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 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
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
- 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
- Suggested uses
- Mediterranean climate plants, Architectural, Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- S Europe, NW Africa
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. We advise against moving this plant as new shoots will emerge from deep roots unavoidably left behind and may be difficult to eradicate. 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