Spiny Bear's Breech Acanthus spinosus

Spiny bear’s breeches is a clumping perennial plant in the Acanthaceae (acanthus) family. It is native to Europe and the Mediterranean. The Greek word akantha means spines which refers to the toothy edges some leaves in the genus.  Spinosus means spiny and comes from the stiff spines found on the margins of the leaves that resemble that of the thistle.

This plant prefers well-drained soil in partial shade, with some protection from the afternoon sun in our hot southern climates. While it grows in a wide variety of soils it does not do well in wet soils. Slow growing, it can take some time to establish but once it takes hold, it spreads easily by seed and root cutting, making it almost impossible to eradicate out of a planting bed.

Its showy spikes of purple-white flowers that resemble snapdragons bring a pop of color to shady spots and make attractive additions to cut-flower bouquets. The large, spiky, arching leaves should not be ignored as they are what inspired the design of Greek Corinthian columns.

Use bear’s breeches as an accent or border plant in the landscape or in a cutting garden.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Slugs and snails can do damage.