About

Acanthus 'Summer Beauty' is a hardy, clump-forming perennial that features deeply lobed, glossy green leaves, creating a mound that reaches up to 75 cm in height. In summer, it produces tall flower spikes, standing at approximately 1.8 m, adorned with white blooms that are encased in hooded, spiny 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 sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, 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
1.5-2.5 metres
Spread
1-1.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Cultivation
Grows best in sun or semi-shade in a well-drained soil. Has the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well
Pruning
Old flower stems can be cut down
Propagation
Propagate by division or by root cuttings
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to powdery mildews