Bear's breech - Acanthus mollis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images, Toxic)

Bear's breech

Also known as: Oyster plant

Bear's breech (Acanthus mollis) is a perennial plant native to the Mediterranean region of Europe from Portugal to North Africa. Bear's breech grows commonly in the wild and is often used as a garden plant. The acanthus leaves of this plant are seen throughout history in sculptures, columns, and furniture.

Scientific classification

Species

Bear's breech (Acanthus mollis)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

All year round

Harvest Time

30 cm to 1.8 m

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green, Yellow, White

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Bear's breech

Distribution of Bear's breech

Distribution Map

Bear's breech grows in a range of habitats, primarily forests, across its native Mediterranean rim. It has also been introduced to other parts of Europe, Mexico, Australia and the US West Coast. This plant grows as an invasive species and is classed as such in the state of Oregon, Australia and New Zealand.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woodland scrub, stony hillsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Bear's breech can be planted in courtyards, flowerbeds, and gardens. Planted for its tall, eye-catching blooms, this plant is often used as an architectural plant and used to create landscape imagery. This is a good fit for cottage, informal, and Mediterranean gardens and is often planted with airy plants like ornamental grasses and Crocosmia, which look good against its bold foliage.

Symbolism

Lively and active

Interesting Facts

The most distinctive feature of bear's breeches is its flowers. There are dozens of flowers on a bear's breech, but its flowers do not bloom proudly all at once, but hide shyly under the leaves, only showing small heads, looking like the tail of a shrimp. Its peculiar flower pattern makes it irresistible to not stop and take a look.

Name Story

Bear's breech: According to the plant taxonomy expert William Stearn, the name Bear's Breech comes from the medieval (Pre-Linnaean) latin name "Acanthus sativus branca ursina" which means "Cultivated Spiny Bear Bract". This is because they felt that the curved bracts on the flower stalk looked like a bear claw.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Bear's breech, including the following common varieties :

Bear's breech 'Rue Ledan'Bear's breech 'Whitewater'Bear's breech 'Morning's Candle'

Quickly Identify Bear's breech

Deeply lobed dark green leaves with shiny texture, up to 24 inches (0.6 meters) long.

White to light pink flowers with tubular shape, surrounded by spiny green or purplish bracts.

Fruit is green oval capsule, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) long, splitting open to release dark seeds.

Flowers bloom May-July, 2 inches (5 cm) long, with purple upper lip and white lower lip.

Vertical spikes of blooms can reach 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) in height during spring/early summer.

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Care Guide for Bear's breech

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Bear's breech thrives in Mediterranean understory conditions, preferring a mix of sun and shade with moderate rainfall. It tolerates drought but needs weekly watering, especially during active growth. Suitable for outdoor cultivation, stable moisture levels are vital for its vibrant summer growth.

Fertilize: For bear's breech, use balanced fertilizers, especially in spring. Apply high-phosphorus before flowering and fertilize every 4-6 weeks. Reduce in winter and avoid over-fertilization, which can damage roots. Water bear's breech before and after fertilizing to prevent root burn and enhance nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Pruning bear's breech from early to late spring improves air circulation and promotes healthy growth. Remove dead leaves and cut back flowering stems post-bloom to encourage future flowers. Regular pruning controls size and prevents overcrowding, enhancing bear's breech's health and aesthetics.

Propagation: Bear's breech propagates best by sowing in early Spring, requiring moderate care. Healthy seedling emergence signals successful propagation. Maintain adequate moisture and warmth for optimal germination.

Repotting: Repot bear's breech every 2-3 years in spring using a large pot to support its growing roots. After repotting, water thoroughly and keep in indirect light to reduce stress. Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot, which is a common issue for bear's breech.

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Images of Bear's breech

Distribution of Bear's breech

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Bear's breech

Care Guide for Bear's breech

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