About
Acanthus sennii is a vertical perennial or sub-shrub characterized by its oblong to oval leaves, which feature prominent spines and a mid-green hue. In mid-summer to early autumn, it produces large, red, lipped flowers that appear on short, terminal spikes.
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, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, South-facing, North-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
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
- Sub-tropical, Architectural, Cottage and informal garden
- Native to
- Ethiopia
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. 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
- Powdery mildews may be a problem