Species bear's breeches
Short green-purple stems full of purple leaves and white flowers.

bear's breeches

Acanthus spinosus

Bear's breeches (Acanthus spinosus) is an amazing species of perennial plant for many reasons. Its strikingly tall inflorescence of purple and white flowers is remarkable. Its large glossy, spiny foliage is equally eye catching, adding bold architectural structure to gardens. The flowers are a favourite of pollinators, especially bees, creating a unique atmosphere when full of buzzing. During autumn, its foliage turns to shades of yellow and orange creating a warm and inviting ambience. Perfect for the front of beds and borders, the bear's breeches is a truly remarkable plant.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 9

Flowers:

Pink - mauve Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Bear’s Breeches should be watered every few days during the growing season. Always check the soil before watering; if it feels dry, then it needs water. Water enough to moisten the top 2–5 inches of soil, but don't overwater. In the summer months, it's best to water in the morning to help the plant fight off any heat stress that the hot sun may bring. In the winter months, it's best to water a little less often, but still make sure the soil is moist. As a general rule, Bear's Breeches should be watered once a week or every other week, depending on the soil and weather conditions.

sunlight

Bear's breeches (Acanthus spinosus) prefer sun for at least 4-5 hours each day, although they can tolerate partial shade conditions. There is also evidence that the flowers of this species last longer in full sun. In general, it's best to plant this species in a spot that gets full morning sun and some shade in late afternoon. During the heat of the summer, some extra shade would be beneficial for this species.

pruning

Bear's breeches (Acanthus spinosus) should be pruned in early spring, before the plants begin actively growing. Pruning can be done for shaping and to remove any dead or diseased foliage and stems. Use pruning shears and cut back the flowering shoots to the basal foliage mound. Removing faded flower spikes will also help to encourage re-flowering. In general, you should limit pruning to about a third of the stems. This will help to promote fullness. In addition, if your plant becomes leggy, you can cut roots in spring. This will help promote more buds and blooms.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Bear's breeches typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Bear's breeches typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map