Overview

Acanthus mollis 'Summer Beauty' is a perennial herb in the genus Acanthus, part of the Acanthaceae family. It typically grows around 1.2 m tall. Acanthus mollis 'Summer Beauty' grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include borders and architectural planting. It is native to Mediterranean region.

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.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Acanthus mollis

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

Soil type

Sandy, Loamy

Soil moisture

Well-drained, Moist but well-drained

Exposure

Full sun

UK hardiness

H5

Plant details

Acanthus mollis 'Summer Beauty' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Perennial herb

Height

1.2 m

Suggested uses

Borders, architectural planting

Native to

Mediterranean region

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Acanthus mollis 'Summer Beauty'

Cultivation

Prefers well-drained soil, avoid waterlogging; drought tolerant once established

Pruning

Cut back old flower spikes after blooming to encourage new growth

Propagation

Division in spring or autumn, seed

Frequently asked questions