Acanthus mollis

Description and Characteristics

Acanthus mollis is a bold, architectural perennial plant prized for its deeply lobed, glossy green foliage and tall, striking flower spikes. Native to the Mediterranean region, this plant is a classic choice for formal borders, wild gardens, and textural planting schemes due to its commanding presence and distinctive form.

In summer, it produces tall vertical flower spikes—typically 90–150 cm high—adorned with two-lipped white flowers, each housed within a dramatic purple bract. These blooms rise above the foliage from June to August, creating a sculptural and stately display.

The large, shiny leaves grow in an attractive basal rosette and can reach up to 60–90 cm in length. Although similar in appearance to Acanthus spinosus, A. mollis has softer, less spiny foliage, giving it a more elegant and refined texture.

• Herbaceous perennial with large, deeply lobed, glossy green leaves

• Flowering spikes with white-purple hooded flowers in early to midsummer

• Height: 90–150 cm; Spread: 75–100 cm

• Great for architectural borders, classical gardens, or wildlife areas

• Long-lived and low-maintenance once established

Growing Conditions and Maintenance

Acanthus mollis is easy to grow, requiring only minimal care after establishment. It thrives in a variety of conditions but prefers well-drained soil and light shade, making it adaptable to many parts of the garden.

• Light Requirements:

  • Prefers partial shade

  • Will tolerate full sun if the soil remains moist

  • In deep shade, foliage will thrive but flowering may be reduced

• Soil Preferences:

  • Grows best in moist, fertile, well-drained soil

  • Suitable for loam, clay, chalk, or sand

  • pH: neutral to alkaline preferred

• Watering Needs:

  • Keep evenly moist during the first year

  • Once established, it is reasonably drought-tolerant

  • Avoid soggy or compacted soils to prevent root rot

• Feeding:

  • Mulch with organic compost or well-rotted manure in spring

  • No need for heavy feeding; this plant is vigorous on its own

• Pruning and Maintenance:

  • Cut back faded flower spikes after blooming to tidy up

  • Remove any dead or damaged leaves in late autumn or early spring

  • May require staking if planted in windy or exposed areas

• Root Management:

  • Can spread by underground rhizomes, forming large colonies over time

  • Divide or thin every 3–5 years to manage clumps or propagate

• Winter Care:

  • Hardy in Zones 7–10 (RHS H4–H5)

  • In colder regions, apply a mulch in autumn to protect the crown

  • Dies back in winter; new shoots emerge in spring

Garden Uses, Companion Plants, and Design Appeal

Acanthus mollis is an architectural showpiece in the landscape. Its large leaves and dramatic flower spikes add structure and texture, making it ideal for formal, Mediterranean, and naturalistic garden styles.

• Design Applications:

  • Excellent for back-of-border planting, focal points, or foundation planting

  • Perfect for classical or courtyard gardens, where its bold leaves can shine

  • Looks spectacular when planted in drifts or repeated along walls and fences

• Companion Plants:

  • Pairs well with Salvia, Nepeta, Eryngium, Allium, and Echinops

  • Blends beautifully with ornamental grasses and Mediterranean herbs

  • Contrasts strongly with fine-textured plants like Ferns or Briza media

• Wildlife and Pollinator Value:

  • Attracts bees and hoverflies with its nectar-rich flowers

  • Flower structure also supports beneficial insects

  • Can contribute to a low-maintenance wildlife border

• Pest and Disease Resistance:

  • Generally pest- and disease-free

  • May occasionally be affected by slugs or snails on young shoots

  • Good drainage and airflow will minimise any fungal problems

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

Click here for more information about our shipping conditions.

You can pay your online order either by credit card or via Paypal.
If you have any further questions about the online order payment please contact us via ­069 640 84 or mail.