Acanthus mollis

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

Plant Size:
3 feet high and wide
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

The basal leaves are up to 2 feet long and quite broad, with deep, sharply toothed lobes. They are thick and leathery, with a shiny deep green upper surface. The flower spikes may rise as much as 6 feet, carrying dozens of white to pink flowers with reddish purple "hoods".