Overview
Acanthus mollis Latifolius is a plant with a columnar upright habit in the genus Acanthus, part of the Acanthaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Acanthus mollis Latifolius grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include architectural, cottage and informal garden, low maintenance and flower borders and beds.
About
Acanthus mollis 'Latifolius' is a deciduous cultivar of the Acanthus genus, known for its columnar upright habit. It thrives in well-drained loam or sandy soils across a range of pH levels, including acid, alkaline, and neutral. Suitable for sheltered positions with full sun or partial shade, it is hardy to UK zone H4. This cultivar is ideal for architectural features, cottage and informal gardens, as well as flower borders and beds, offering a low-maintenance option. Propagation can be achieved through division or root cuttings.
About the genus
Acanthus is a genus of about 30 species of flowering plants in the family Acanthaceae, native to tropical and warm temperate regions, with the highest species diversity in the Mediterranean Basin and Asia. This flowering plant is nectar-producing and depends on butterflies, such as Anartia fatima, and other nectar-feeding organisms to distribute its pollen. Common names include acanthus and bear's breeches.
Wikipedia contributors, "Acanthus (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Acanthus (plant)
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Acanthus
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing, North-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Acanthus mollis Latifolius size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Cottage and informal garden, Low Maintenance, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Acanthus mollis Latifolius
- Propagation
- Division, Root cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Powdery mildews may be a problem
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Acanthus mollis Latifolius?
Acanthus mollis Latifolius prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Acanthus mollis Latifolius need?
Acanthus mollis Latifolius grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Acanthus mollis Latifolius hardy in the UK?
Acanthus mollis Latifolius has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Acanthus mollis Latifolius?
Division, Root cuttings.