Acanthus mollis

Bear's Breeches

Acanthus mollis

Photo Credit: Stonehouse Nursery


Acanthus mollis

Bear's Breeches

This bold, architectural perennial is a favorite of designers and collectors. Its huge, shiny, dark green leaves form a basal mound topped with impressive spikes of large, hooded, mauve and white flowers. Nearly evergreen in warmer climates. Mulch for winter protection in the north.

Plant Details

  • Zone: 6 - 9
  • Height: 3-4'
  • Spread: 3-4'
  • Exposure: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Soil Moisture: Low Water Needs, Moderate Water Needs
  • Drought tolerant: No
  • Bloom time: Late Summer, Midsummer
  • Foliage Color: Green Shades
  • Flower Color: Purple Shades, White Shades
  • Fragrant: No
  • Good Cut Flower: Yes
  • Native: Not native to North America
  • Deer resistant: Yes
  • Rabbit resistant: Yes
  • Bee-friendly: No
  • Attracts butterflies: No
  • Attracts hummingbirds: No
  • Groundcover: No
  • Roy Diblik Favorite: No

Plant Details

  • Zone: 6 - 9
  • Height: 3-4'
  • Spread: 3-4'
  • Exposure: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Soil Moisture: Low Water Needs, Moderate Water Needs
  • Drought tolerant: No
  • Bloom time: Late Summer, Midsummer
  • Foliage Color: Green Shades
  • Flower Color: Purple Shades, White Shades
  • Fragrant: No
  • Good Cut Flower: Yes
  • Native: Not native to North America
  • Bee-friendly: No
  • Deer resistant: Yes
  • Rabbit resistant: Yes
  • Attracts butterflies: No
  • Attracts hummingbirds: No
  • Groundcover: No
  • Roy Diblik Favorite: No

Grower Information

  • PowerPlug Size(s): 32s
  • Optimal Planting Time: Late Summer-Fall
  • Retail Sales Window: Summer
  • Moisture in Production: Average, Consistent
  • Requires Shade in Production: Yes
  • Vernalization Required for Bloom: Yes
  • Vernalization Beneficial: No