bear's breeches
Acanthus mollis
USDA zones7 to 10
SunHandles full sun to partial sun
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size3 to 5 feet tall2 to 3 feet wide
- Growth rate
- Rapid
- Habit
- Clumping
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- White (sometimes pink)
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Bear's breeches (Acanthus mollis) is a perennial for borders, cottage gardens, and use as a specimen. It is hardy to USDA zone 7, or down to 0°F (-18°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to moist soil of most types. It grows in a clump and spreads fast. The white flowers sometimes come in pink and attract butterflies. Once settled, it handles dry spells well.
Pairs well with Liberty hosta, Japanese forest grass, and Balloon flower.
Native range
Southern Europe and northwestern Africa.