Common name: bear’s breeches

Family name: Acanthaceae

Description: clump forming perennial with upright spikes of white to light pink flowers and dark purple bracts. The leaves are spiny and deeply lobed and slightly glossy.

Flower: white flowers that can be tinged pink, held on tall upright spikes each sporting a dark reddish purple bract; flowers open from bottom to top, blooming mid to late summer; bracts remain after the flowers are finished, giving the plant an attractive appearance in and out of flower.

Foliage: large, deeply lobed leaves with a slightly glossy appearance; tips of each lobe look spiny, but texture of the leaves is actually quite soft

Growing conditions: part to full sun; can be drought tolerant once established, but prefers some moisture;

Height and spread: 90-120 cm by 75-90 cm.

Limitations: very distinct and eye catching so needs to be used in a thoughtful way, not as filler.

Landscape uses: This plant has an overall very architectural and striking appearance; can be used to give vertical interest in the landscape; can hold its own next to large structures.