Armed Bear's Breeches

Armed Bear's Breeches Care

Acanthus Spinosus

What is the plant

A. spinosus is a clump-forming, deciduous perennial with large, deeply-lobed, glossy, dark green leaves, spiny at the margins, and, from late spring to midsummer, erect racemes of white flowers with purple bracts.

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Humidity

Normal

Lighting

Full Sun

Hardiness zone

6 - 10

Difficulty

Easy

Hibernation

Cold Period

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Once established, Bear’s Breeches are very drought resistant. They do best with regular water. An inch a week should be plenty.
Pruning
Remove faded flower stems.
Fertilizer
Bear’s Breeches are not heavy feeders. Start with a rich soil and side dress annually with compost. You can use a balanced fertilizer in spring or mid-summer if the plants look like they need it.

Disease diagnosis

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Sunlight
Plants will do best in full sun to partial shade. They need more protection in hot climates, but wherever you grow them, they need at least a few hours of sun to bloom well.
Soil
Bear’s Breeches like a rich soil with plenty of compost or other organic matter. Once established, they are more accommodating about poor soil, but they absolutely need good drainage, especially in winter. Sitting in cold, wet soil can cause the roots to rot and may kill the plants.
Temperature
These plants are dependably hardy. Protect your plants during their first couple of winters with a thick layer of mulch. In Zones 6 and lower, continue this practice for the life of your plants.