Acanthus dioscoridis
Dioscorides' bear's breech
A variable perennial to 40cm, with a fleshy, running rootstock producing rosettes of narrow, lobed, spiny, dark green leaves 8-20cm long. Upright spikes of pink flowers with green bracts are produced from late spring to late summer
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Pink | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Acanthaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Acanthus are robust herbaceous perennials with handsome, lobed foliage and tall, erect racemes of two-lipped flowers with colourful bracts
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Iraq, Iran
How to grow
Cultivation
The ideal soil is a deep, fertile, well-drained loam but it will grow in most soils and has good drought tolerance. 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
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- 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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