Perennial – Spiny Bear’s Breetches

Spiny bear’s breetches

Botanical name: acanthus spinosus 

Beginner friendly?: moderate 

Average size at maturity: 3-4 ft in height and in spread 

Hardy zone: zones 5-9 

Foliage color: green 

Flower color: purple, white 

Bloom time: summer 

Growth rate: grows about 6 inches per year 

Pruning instructions: prune as needed throughout the spring, summer, and fall months

Propagation methods: propagate by seed sowing 

Landscape use: borders, edging, container plant 

Special features: deer resistant, drought tolerant, cold hardy, attracts pollinators 

Light needs: 6 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the top 2-4 inches of soil to dry between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow-release liquid fertilizer once a year in the early spring 

Best time to plant: spring, summer, fall 

Best type of soil: sand, loam 

Companion plants: coneflower, sedums, lavender, ornamental grasses

Toxicity level: non-toxic for humans and pets 

Invasive species: potentially invasive