Sea Dock Acanthus mollis

Bear's Breeches is an herbaceous perennial native to Europe and Africa with attractive leaves and showy flower spikes.  The leaves are large and deeply lobed making the plant attractive even when not in bloom. The leaves were used as the model for the Corinthian leaf motif in ancient Greek and Roman architecture.

It grows to 4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide but reaches 5-6 feet tall when in bloom. The tall flower spikes have many 2-lipped tubular flowers in purple and white that bloom May to July. The plant spreads by rhizomes and is best grown in an area with root barriers to prevent unwanted spread.

Bear's Breeches prefers fertile well-drained soils but is tolerant of most soil types except wet ones. It will grow in full sun to partial shade and will do better with some shade in hot climates to prevent leaf scorch. It may go dormant in summer if not irrigated.

Use this plant in the back of the border, in a container or an area surrounded by pavement. Root barriers such as those used for bamboo can be used also. Be sure to plant it where you want it as it is difficult to get rid of once established.