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Herbaceous Perennial

Acanthus hungaricus 'White Lips'

long-leaved bear's breech 'White Lips'

A clump-forming perennial, to 70cm high in flower, with long, deeply cut basal leaves. Tall, spiny spikes of white flowers with purple hoods are produced from early to late summer

Other common names
Hungarian bear’s breech 'White Lips’
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Chalk
Sand
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer White Purple Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

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

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Acanthaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Acanthus are robust herbaceous perennials with handsome, lobed foliage and tall, erect racemes of two-lipped flowers with colourful bracts

Name status

Unresolved

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in sun or part shade, will tolerate most soils but thrives in deep loam. Acanthus need careful positioning as they can be difficult to remove once established. Has the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring or autumn, or by root cuttings in winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut spent stems down to the base after flowering. Cut back old foliage in spring

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails

Diseases

May be susceptible to Powdery mildews

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