Species
Acanthus mollis
Etymology
Acanthus: From the Greek ákantha 'thorn'
mollis: Soft
Common Name(s)
bear's breeches
Authority
Acanthus mollis L.
Family
Acanthaceae
Flora Category
Vascular - Exotic
Structural Class
Dicotyledonous Herbs other than Composites
Habitat
Usually found near old settlements, in partial shade and along riverbanks.
Features
Perennial herb to about 120 cm, with thick roots. Petiole usually 10-50 cm on leaves arising from the root crown, much shorter (2-5 cm) on leaves arising from vertical stem. Leaves variable, but usually dark green and with several lobes. White flowers with pink, purple or brownish veins are produced on the central tall spike, these mature first at the bottom of the spike. Seeds are produced in individual capsules 3-4 cm long.
Similar Taxa
Easily distinguished by the large divided leaves and the distinctive flower head.
Flowering
October, November, December, January, February, March, April
Flower Colours
Red / Pink,White
Fruiting
November, December, January, February, March, April, May
Year Naturalised
1958
Origin
S.W. Europe
Reason for Introduction
Ornamental
Life Cycle and Dispersal
Primarily escapes from cultivation by vegetative spread, although seed is viable. Dispersed by gravity, water and birds. Root fragments grow easily and once established this plant can be hard to eliminate from a site.
Tolerances
Can tolerate moderate shade, but flowers best in at least partial light.
This page last updated on 28 Aug 2015