Acanthus mollis Whitewater - Bear's Breech

The Acanthus 'Whitewater', a thornless hybrid Acanthus with variegated foliage, is a perennial that adds an architectural touch sought after in gardens. It grows quickly and offers a beautiful, abundant, and long-lasting flowering from June to August of tall upright flower spikes in purplish-pink colour, bear cream flowers with pink highlights. The floral corollas measure 5 cm (2in) in diameter.

The 'Whitewater' Acanthus has a spreading habit, with semi-evergreen and highly decorative foliage. It has large, ovate, and dentate leaves, varnished dark green with cream-white variegation, opposite and deeply lobed. The foliage of Acanthus mollis can be found in Corinthian-style decorations. At maturity, it can reach a height of 120 cm (47in) with a spread of 100 cm (39in). The species is native to the Mediterranean Basin and Asia Minor and is a robust plant that can tolerate temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F).

This plant thrives in woodland areas and perennial borders for its decorative foliage, similar to giant dahlias. It can also be grown as a standalone plant, providing volume and lightness against a dark backdrop of hedges or conifers. The flowers of Acanthus mollis can be used to create beautiful fresh or dried bouquets. The plant pairs well with wildflowers or soft foliage, creating a lovely contrast. It can be planted in areas where few plants thrive, such as under a pine tree or oak tree.