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Herbaceous Perennial

Acanthus 'Summer Beauty'

bear's breech 'Summer Beauty'

'Summer Beauty' is a robust, clump-forming herbaceous perennial with deeply-lobed, glossy vibrant green foliage forming a mound to 75cm tall. Spikes of white flowers, covered by hood-like spiny bracts, to 1.8m tall are borne above the foliage in summer

Synonyms
Acanthus mollis 'Summerdance'
Acanthus mollis 'Summer Beauty'
see moreAcanthus spinosus 'Summer Beauty'
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Purple White Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H6
Botanical 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

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Grows best in sun or semi-shade in a well-drained soil. 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
  • Architectural
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Cut flowers
Pruning

Old flower stems can be cut down

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be affected by powdery mildews

Get involved

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