Contents
Description
Acanthus Mollis, also known as Bear’s Breeches, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to the Mediterranean region. The plant has large, glossy leaves that are deeply lobed and can grow up to 60cm in length. The flowers are white or pink and are shaped like a spike. The plant can grow up to 1.2m in height and 1m in width. It is a popular ornamental plant that is often used in garden borders, rock gardens, and as a ground cover.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Acanthus |
Appearance
Acanthus Mollis has large, glossy leaves that are deeply lobed, with a jagged edge. The leaves are a dark green color and can grow up to 60cm in length. The flowers are white or pink and are shaped like a spike. They grow up to 1m in height and 1m in width. The plant has a clumping habit and can spread quickly.
Care Guide
Water
Acanthus Mollis prefers moist soil, but it is important not to over-water the plant as it can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months.
Fertilization
Fertilize Acanthus Mollis with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
Soil
Acanthus Mollis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it is important to avoid soils that are too acidic.
Sunlight
Acanthus Mollis prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to poor growth and flowering.
Hardiness Zones
Acanthus Mollis is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acanthus Mollis is generally a disease-resistant plant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if it is over-watered. The plant can also be affected by aphids, spider mites, and slugs.
Habitat
Acanthus Mollis is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in rocky and dry habitats. It is often found growing in open woodlands, meadows, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Acanthus Mollis?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter months.
Q: What is the ideal soil type for Acanthus Mollis?
A: Acanthus Mollis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it is important to avoid soils that are too acidic.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Acanthus Mollis?
A: Acanthus Mollis is generally a disease-resistant plant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if it is over-watered. The plant can also be affected by aphids, spider mites, and slugs.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Acanthus Mollis?
A: Acanthus Mollis is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Related Plants
- Acanthus Spinosus
- Acanthus Balcanicus
- Acanthus Hirsutus
- Acanthus Dielsianus
References
- “Acanthus mollis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=284743
- “Acanthus Mollis.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/511/acanthus-mollis/details
- “Acanthus Mollis.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/acanthus-bears-breeches/acanthus-bears-breeches.htm
