Acanthus spinosus Spinosissimus Group
spiny bear's breech Spinosissimus Group
A group of clump-forming perennials, with finely cut, spiny, deep grey-green basal leaves with white midribs. Tall, spiny spikes of white flowers with purple hoods are produced in summer. This group is named for its spiny foliage, and may not flower as prolifically as some other cultivars
Synonyms
Acanthus spinosus var. spinosissimusAcanthus spinosus misapplied
see moreAcanthus spinosissimus
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White Purple | Green Grey Silver | ||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter | Green Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Acanthaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous or Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Acanthus are robust herbaceous perennials with handsome, lobed foliage and tall, erect racemes of two-lipped flowers with colourful bracts
- Name status
Accepted
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in sun or part shade, will tolerate most soils but thrives in deep loam. Acanthus need careful positioning as they can be difficult to remove once established. Has the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well
Propagation
Propagate by division or by root cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut down old flower stems
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews
Get involved
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