In this post we will discuss Acanthus mollis, a plant previously used in gardening that is now being reintroduced in parks and gardens. Acanthus mollis is a plant from the Acanthaceae family native to the Mediterranean region.
It is an evergreen, rhizomatous plant that can reach about 60/80 centimeters in height by 60/80 centimeters in width. Its basal leaves, with a very long petiole that can measure about 30 centimeters, measure 20 to 50 centimeters long by 20 to 25 centimeters wide, are elliptical or ovate and toothed, glabrous on their upper surface and hairy on the veins of the underside.
A very attractive and interesting plant for its flowering. It produces an inflorescence that can reach up to a meter and a half in height. Its flowers are purple at the apex and whitish at the base. The flowering is quite long-lasting as it begins approximately in April and ends in June in our latitudes.
Image of Acanthus mollis. Source: robsplants.com
It is a species belonging to hardiness zone number 7, with an average annual minimum temperature range of -17.7 / -12.3°C, showing great resistance to frost. It is therefore a species that can be used at any latitude in Spain.
Acanthus mollis is a species that should be planted in shade, this way we will obtain spectacular flowering. It thrives in acidic, basic or neutral soils. It tolerates clayey, sandy and loamy textures. It grows well in moist soils but with good drainage. Although it is drought resistant, it appreciates occasional watering during the driest times of the year.
It is one of the easiest shade species to grow and will guarantee success in shaded areas, which are always the most difficult in our gardens. With this species, apart from having a vigorous plant, we will have spectacular flowering, even in full shade. It is even suitable for pot cultivation for balconies and terraces (under these conditions watering will be essential for the survival of this species).
The only care that should be performed is to remove dry leaves in spring and cut the leaves that we see are not quite well at ground level.
We recommend the months of September to December for planting, always avoiding the summer months as the plants could suffer severe water stress. It is advisable to use 4 to 5 plants per m2.
Image of Acanthus mollis. Source: commons.wikimedia.org
As a curiosity, we will mention the analgesic effect of the juice that its leaves release when cut, which is why it has been recommended as a symptomatic treatment for herpes, burns and contusions in general.
We can add that the shape of its leaf has been reproduced as an ornamental motif in Greek and Roman architectural styles, so that the Corinthian style capital has the entire drum decorated with acanthus leaves.
It is undoubtedly a plant that we recommend using in your shaded gardens and terraces as we assure you it will give you optimal aesthetic results.