Acanthus mollis

Common name: bear's breeches

Description: A bold, architectural perennial with large, glossy, deeply lobed dark green leaves and tall spikes of hooded purple and white flowers held above the foliage in summer. A real statement plant for the back of a border.

Other benefits: architectural foliage, long-lived, drought tolerant once established, good for dry shade

Wildlife attraction: bees

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 1m x 1m

Position: full sun or partial shade

Soil pH: neutral to alkaline

Moisture: well-drained; tolerates dry soils once established

Winter hardiness: hardy to around -15°C