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(Acanthus hungaricus)
Bear’s Breeches (Acanthus hungaricus)
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Photo by: Daderot | License Type: CC0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/deed.en | Uploader: Daderot | Publisher: Wikipedia Commons
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Acanthus hungaricus, commonly known as Bear’s Breeches, is a semi-deciduous perennial herb native to rocky and scrubby areas, as well as open woodlands in Southeastern Europe, particularly the Balkans. It typically grows to a height of 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters) and a width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters). Bear’s Breeches has deeply lobed, glossy green leaves that provide a lush backdrop to its striking flower spikes. The flowers are arranged in a raceme and are usually white with purple bracts, blooming in the summer and providing a showy display.
This plant is valued for its architectural foliage and bold flower spikes, which make it a dramatic addition to borders and Mediterranean-style gardens. It is also used in historical and cottage gardens. Bear’s Breeches prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought once established, making it relatively easy to maintain. While it thrives in full sun or part shade, it requires protection from strong winds. It is generally pest-free but can be susceptible to snails and slugs. Acanthus hungaricus is not typically invasive but can spread through its root system if not controlled.CC BY-SA 4.0
This plant is valued for its architectural foliage and bold flower spikes, which make it a dramatic addition to borders and Mediterranean-style gardens. It is also used in historical and cottage gardens. Bear’s Breeches prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought once established, making it relatively easy to maintain. While it thrives in full sun or part shade, it requires protection from strong winds. It is generally pest-free but can be susceptible to snails and slugs. Acanthus hungaricus is not typically invasive but can spread through its root system if not controlled.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 3-4 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: Pink, White
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Deer Resistant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Rocky and scrubby areas, as well as open woodlands in Southeastern Europe, particularly the Balkans
Other Names
Common Names: Long-Leaved Bear’s Breech, Long-Leaved Bear’s Breeches, Acanthus Balcanicus
Scientific Names: , Acanthus hungaricus, Acanthus balcanicus, Acanthus longifolius var. hungaricus,
GBIF Accepted Name: Acanthus hungaricus (Borbás) Baen.