Acanthus

Handsome, lush, and incredibly lobed leaves that exceed 3 feet in width make this Mediterranean shrub an eye-catching perennial. In sun or shade where temperatures stay above 5°F, this stunner will attract even more attention in the spring and summer when tall purple and white flowers appear along 4-5 foot spikes that last for weeks to months. Give these plenty of room (6-8 feet) and moderate to regular water and they will not disappoint. It is widely accepted that these leaves were the inspiration for the Corinthian column capitols so frequently used in in Greco-Roman architecture and that they are among the earliest known cultivated species.

LIGHTING REQUIREMENTS: USDA hardiness zones: 5 through 9

CARE INSTRUCTIONS WATER: Keep soil evenly moist. Do not let it dry out completely.

FERTILIZER: Fertilize in spring with a complete organic fertilizer.

FLOWERING: Blooms in spring and summer with white and lavender colors.

SOIL: Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Tolerates wide range of soils except poorly-drained ones.