Acanthus Morning Candle - Bear's Breech

The Acanthus 'Morning Candle', a vigorous semi-evergreen hybrid resulting from the cross-breeding of Acanthus mollis and Acanthus spinosus, is a perennial that brings a sought-after architectural touch to gardens. Slow to establish, it then offers one of the longest and most generous flowering periods, from late June to October. The floral spikes with long and wide clusters of pinkish-white flowers topped with purple-mauve helmets proudly stand above sumptuous cushions of large, finely cut, glossy green leaves. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun.

The 'Morning Candle' Acanthus forms a bushy, upright shrub composed of semi-evergreen and highly decorative foliage. It has large, ovate and toothed leaves, dark green and glossy, opposite and deeply lobed. The foliage of Acanthus mollis and Acanthus spinosus can be found in Corinthian-style decorations. At maturity, it can reach a height of 120 cm (47in) with a spread of 70 cm (28in). This hybrid is a vigorous plant that can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°C (1°F). It prefers rich, deep and well-drained soils and a sunny location. However, it can also adapt to shaded areas and very dry, rocky and hot places, as long as stagnant moisture in the soil and excessive wind exposure is avoided.

This plant can be found in woodlands and in perennial borders for its decorative foliage, similar to giant dahlias. It is also cultivated as a standalone plant, which allows it to provide volume and lightness against a dark backdrop of hedges or conifers. Acanthus flowers can be used to create beautiful fresh or dried bouquets. The plant pairs well with wildflowers or soft foliage to contrast nicely. It can be planted in masses where few plants grow, such as under a pine or oak tree. It will also have a beautiful effect as a border around a terrace, where one can enjoy its lush foliage up close or in a mixed border with other imposing species like bushy plants such as Caryopteris and tall grasses. The 'Morning Candle' Acanthus may be slow to establish, but once rooted, it can effectively fill challenging garden areas.