Acanthus hirsutus, commonly known as the Hairy Acanthus, is a perennial herb native to rocky and bushy slopes, as well as open woodlands of the Mediterranean region. It typically grows to a height of 30-80 centimeters and spreads 30-50 centimeters wide. The plant is characterized by its deeply lobed, spiny leaves and tall, erect flower spikes that bear white or pale pink flowers with purple bracts, blooming in the summer months. The flowers are showy and attract pollinators, while the plant’s overall appearance adds a dramatic touch to garden settings.

Hairy Acanthus is valued for its architectural form and striking flowers, which make it a popular choice for borders, Mediterranean gardens, and as a focal point in ornamental beds. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. This plant prefers well-drained soil and thrives in full sun to part shade. While generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to snails and slugs. Acanthus hirsutus is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems, but in some regions, it can self-seed and become somewhat invasive if not managed.CC BY-SA 4.0