Plant Database
Bear's Breeches
Acanthus mollis
Bear's Breeches is a dramatic and architectural foliage plant that commands attention in the shade garden. Its bold, glossy, deeply lobed leaves form a magnificent, lush mound that provides striking texture even when not in bloom. In summer, it sends up towering flower spikes adorned with hooded, creamy-white blossoms framed by showy purple bracts, resembling exotic sea creatures. This statuesque, evergreen perennial brings a timeless, classical elegance to woodland settings and sheltered borders.
Bold, Architectural Foliage: Features enormous, glossy, dark green leaves with deeply cut, wavy lobes, creating a spectacular, sculptural presence year-round.
Towering, Unique Flower Spikes: Produces impressive, upright spikes of hooded, creamy-white flowers nestled within contrasting purple-pink bracts in mid to late summer.
Majestic and Substantial Presence: Grows into a large, clump-forming specimen, reaching 3-6 feet tall and wide, making it an unparalleled focal point.
Thrives in Partial to Full Shade: Prefers dappled shade or morning sun with afternoon shade, where its foliage remains lush and avoids scorching.
Drought Tolerant Once Established: While it appreciates moisture, its deep roots make it surprisingly resilient to dry periods once it has settled in.