Acanthus mollis (Acanthus)

A popular architectural plant which has large, deep green, glossy leaves with jagged edges and in summer magnificent, tall spikes of white flowers with purple hoods.

History

Acanthus comes from the greek word for 'thorn' or 'spine' and refers mainly to leaves of Acanthus spinosus which are like those of the thistle. Acanthus have been popular since Greek and Roman times, infact it is thought by historians that the leaves of this plant were the inspiration for Corinthian column captials. It is a native plant of southern Europe and northwest Africa, found in woodland scrub and on stony hillsides.  It has now naturalised in parts of Great Britain and is considered a wildflower, but it was actually one of the earliest cultivated species of garden plants.

Planting

Dig a hole and loosen the surrounding soil with a fork, especially at the base and mix in some well rotted organic material or compost. Place the plant in the hole so that the roots are just below the level of the surrounding soil. Backfill in around the plant and firm in the roots tomake it secure.  Water after planting.

Propagation

Division, Root Cuttings.

Cultivation

Will grow well in any reasonably fertile, deep, moist, but well drained soil in dappled shade. It will survive in full sun but the leaves may wilt or scorch.

Aftercare

Protect new and young leaves from attack by slugs and snails. To minimise the risk of powdery mildew, ensure the plant is watered well during hot, dry spells. Feed by applying an annual mulch of well rotted organic material or manure. To rejuvenate the plant and avoid congestion lift and divide large clumps in autumn or spring. Cut back old foliage once it has died back in autumn. 

Pests

Slugs and Snails.

Diseases

Trouble free.

Other information

Makes good cut flowers.

Height/Spread

A hardy herbaceous perennial plant that produces large, dark green, glossy leaves up to 90cm long  that have deeply lobed and cut edges. In mid to late summer (August) magnificent spikes of white flowers with purple hoods tower above the foliage on strong stems, lasting for quite a few weeks.

Annual care

March

Feed by applying an annual mulch of well rotted organic material or manure. Lift and divide any congested plants.

October

Cut back old foliage once it has died back.  Lift and divide congested plants.