Acanthus spinosus - Bear's Breech

The Acanthus spinosus, also known as Spiny Bear's Breeches, is a majestic perennial plant of excellent ornamental value. This species develops large, distinctly spiny leaves that are highly decorative, deeply cut and shiny dark green. It offers summer flowering with spectacular spikes adorned with white flowers and pink bracts that are also spiny. Moderately hardy, it is a plant for dry and sunny areas, although it can tolerate any well-drained soil, even clay or rocky soil. It is ideal for adding volume and strong character to beds of perennial or colourful annual plants.

The Acanthus spinosus is a herbaceous perennial plant of the acanthus family, native to southern Greece and Turkey. The spiny acanthus grows naturally in Corinth and is believed to be the origin of the famous Corinthian capital motif. This plant has dense, bushy, dark green foliage that can grow up to 70cm (28in) tall and 80cm (32in) wide. The leaves are long and deeply cut, with tapered lobes that end in a long needle, making it look like a large, dark green thistle. 

Large flower spikes appear during June, July, and August, attracting pollinating insects like bumblebees and carpenter bees. The flowers are pure white and crumpled, and the spikes can grow up to 1m (3ft) above the ground. The plant produces shiny capsules that contain large seeds once it has finished flowering. 

After flowering, the foliage disappears but reappears in autumn and remains evergreen throughout winter, provided the weather isn't too harsh. The plant spreads from the base with large fleshy roots that can store water and food reserves during dry periods.

The spiny acanthus is a plant that is not very hardy compared to others in its genus. During winter in cold climates, it needs protection. However, it is effortless to grow and can withstand drought. This magnificent plant is an excellent choice for a dry garden. It is a reliable perennial and pairs well with other warm-toned plants such as Caryopteris, Ceratostigma griffithii, Perowskia 'Blue Spire', or Lobelia laxiflora and Epilobium canum. It adds both verticality and volume to perennial beds in all regions. It is a beautiful focal point in a natural scene or a large container on the terrace. Like its relatives, the spiny acanthus thrives in scree found at the foot of ruins, adding a unique charm to such locations. It can naturalise in old gardens and cover large areas if happy there.

The acanthus has been a popular design element in architecture since ancient Greek times. It was first seen in Corinthian capitals in a sculpture called the "Basket of Callimachus" from the 5th century BC. According to Vitruvius, this sculpture was inspired by an acanthus plant that grew around a basket placed on a child's tomb, as was customary at the time.