Acanthus spinosus

Common Name:
Bear's breech
Plant Type:
Evergreen perennial
Family:
Acanthaceae (The Acanthus Family)
Geographic Origin:
Mediterranean Region
California Native?:
No

Plant Size:
Leaves to 18 inches high
Landscape/Garden Uses:
Mixed plantings
Flowering Season:
Summer

Flower Color:
White
Exposure:
Sun or light shade
Soils:
Most soils

Suggested Irrigation:
Moderate to little watering
Estimated Hardiness:
Hardy to 0 degrees F. or less

This species is distinguished by dark green large leaves (often 3 feet long), with intimidating spines along the margins. In reality, this is mostly a good bluff. Though prickly, they lack the penetrating power of typical rose and barberry thorns. The flowers are white, in this case with dark purplish hoods, and borne on 3 foot stalks.