Acanthus hirsutus
hairy bear's breech
An herbaceous perennial, to 45cm tall, with a rosette of toothed and prickly, lance-shaped, dark green leaves, each up to 40cm long and 8cm wide. In summer, short spikes bear creamy-pale-yellow flowers hooded with green bracts. The leaves, stems and flower spikes are covered with silky hairs
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Cream Yellow | 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
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a fertile, well-drained soil; does best in full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Has the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well
Propagation
Propagate by seed or division or from root cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Architectural
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut down old flower stems
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews
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