About

Acanthus mollis (Latifolius Group) 'Rue Ledan' is a semi-evergreen perennial that forms clumps and reaches a height of approximately 1.5 meters. It features wide, shallowly lobed leaves that are glossy and dark green in color. In late summer, it produces upright spikes adorned with white flowers topped with green hoods.

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
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming, Columnar upright
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Height
1-1.5 metres
Spread
1-1.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants

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. Do not move 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 in spring or autumn or by root cuttings in winter
Pest resistance
Powdery mildews may be a problem
Disease resistance
Slugs and snails may be a problem