Helping You Become a More Successful Gardener
Plant Search
John Rickard
Acanthaceae
Acanthus mollis 'Oak Leaf'
Bank Ursine, Bear's Breeches, Oak Leaf Bear's Breeches
This cultivar of the popular bear’s breech has bigger leaves that are more deeply lobed, almost oak-like. It is an interesting Old World perennial that has a coarse upright habit that adds texture to sunny gardens. Bear's breech is quite hardy and summer-blooming. It is native to regions in southwestern Europe, though it has been in cultivation for a long time.
The deeply lobed, coarse leaves are rich dark green and form large rosettes. In summer, it produces tall upright spikes of two-lipped, tubular maroon and white flowers. Once spent, the old blooms should be cut back to make best of the semi-evergreen foliage.
This perennial grows best in full to partial sun and fertile soil with average drainage. It is an old-fashioned perennial that’s commonly planted in historic gardens across Europe. Both the foliage and flowers bring striking interest to the garden.
12 - 7
7 - 11
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Perennial
Full Sun, Partial Sun
3'-5' / 0.9m - 1.5m (4)
Early Summer, Summer, Late Summer
Southern Europe, Western Europe, Africa
Acidic
Average
Loam, Sand
Drought
Medium
Average Water
Clump-Forming
Spring, Summer, Fall
Showy
White, Burgundy, Chocolate, Ivory
Bicolor
Dark Green
No
Single
Yes
Bold
Glossy
Cutflower, Feature Plant, Mixed Border
© 2006-2012 Preferred Commerce. All Rights Reserved.
