Also known as Acanthus · Artist's Acanthus · Artist's Breech
Bear's breeches (Acanthus mollis) is a striking perennial with large, deeply lobed leaves and tall spikes of hooded white flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings during the growing season. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperate climates. Can withstand some frost once established.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Light feeding in spring with a balanced fertilizer is usually sufficient. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Sap can cause skin irritation upon contact. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in autumn and winter, especially in cooler climates, to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions, which can harm the plant.
Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to encourage a tidier appearance and potentially a second flush of flowers. In late autumn or early spring, cut back any dead or damaged foliage to the ground.
This tidies the plant and promotes fresh spring growth.
Acanthus mollis can be propagated by division of the root system in early spring. Carefully separate healthy sections of the root, ensuring each has an eye or bud, and replant immediately.
Seed propagation is also possible but may take longer to establish.
Mature plants generally do not require frequent repotting and can become quite large. If a potted plant becomes pot-bound or shows signs of reduced vigor, repot in spring into a larger container with well-draining soil.
Ensure the root ball is disturbed as little as possible.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Bear's Breeches (Acanthus mollis)
Where Bear's Breeches (Acanthus mollis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Acanthus |
| Species | Acanthus mollis |
Similar in genus Acanthus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
