Mounded, large, deeply lobed leaves: Creates a dramatic, architectural silhouette in the garden
Spiny leaf tips: Deters deer and adds rugged, sophisticated texture
Bi-color summer blooms: Produces crisp white and mauve purple trumpet-shaped flowers for visual interest
Slow grower in heavy soils: Allows for natural containment and long-term landscape presence
Versatile placement: Suitable for borders, corners, or naturalized areas
Bring the timeless beauty of ancient Greek architecture to your garden with the Spiny Bear’s Breeches, botanically known as Acanthus spinosus. Famous for being the inspiration behind the ornate carvings on Corinthian column capitals, this perennial is a true "designer plant." It offers a rare combination of structural drama and rugged rel
Botanical Name
Acanthus spinosus
Mature Height
3 to 4 feet
Leaf Length
Up to 24 inches
Flower Color
White and mauve purple
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Soil Preference
Thrives in loose, sandy soils; can be aggressive in heavy soils