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Bear's Breech

Bear's Breech

Acanthus mollis

perennial part shade💧💧 moderate waterZone 7aZone 11a

A robust Mediterranean perennial with deeply lobed, architectural foliage and tall spikes of white or purple flowers. Valued in permaculture for its dramatic form, deer resistance, and ability to stabilize poor soils.

Overview

Form
Spreading
Growth Rate
fast
Size
2–4′ tall × 2–3′ wide
Dormancy
semi-evergreen

Tolerances & Soil

Zone 7aZone 11a
1471013
ColderWarmer
Zone range: Zone 7a to Zone 11a

Seasonality

Bloom Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Season of Interest

SpringSummer

Herb

Soft non-woody plants of the field layer.

Succession Role

mid successional

Native Range

Mediterranean

Function & Care

dynamic accumulatorwildlife benefitmedicinal

Establishment & Care

Establishment
easy
Maintenance
low
Propagation
seed, division, root cutting

Notable Cultivars

'Latifolius' has broader, more deeply cut leaves and is more vigorous; 'Tasmanian Angel' is a compact white-flowered form suitable for smaller spaces.