Acanthus Mollis 'Whitewater'
Delivered via specialist nursery freight — plants travel upright in enclosed trucks, not general couriers. Learn more
Whitewater Bear's Breeches
Botanical Name: Acanthus mollis 'Whitewater'
Family: Acanthaceae
Origin: Mediterranean (cultivar selection)
Plant Type: Evergreen to semi-evergreen clump-forming perennial
Overview
Acanthus mollis ‘Whitewater’ is a bold, variegated perennial with large, deeply lobed dark-green leaves splashed and edged creamy-white. In summer, tall spikes carry pink-and-cream/white flowers above the foliage. Best in part shade in SA (morning sun/afternoon shade), in fertile, well-drained soil. Architectural foliage for borders and big pots.
Key Features
- Mature Size: 0.9-1.2 m H x 0.9-1.5 m W
- Growth Rate: 20-40 cm per year under good conditions
- Foliage: Large, glossy, variegated leaves; striking year-round effect
- Flowers: Tall summer spires; pink/cream-white blooms with purple/pink bracts; non-fragrant
- Seasonal Interest: Architectural foliage most of the year; summer flower spikes
- Wildlife Value: Flowers provide nectar/pollen for insects
- Tolerance: Reasonably drought tolerant once established; frost hardy; handles full sun–part shade (give part shade in hot summers); needs free-draining soil (avoid waterlogging).
- Planting Density: 60–90 cm apart for borders/mass; not a privacy hedge. (Clumps expand)
- Pet Friendly: Generally not listed as toxic; ingestion may cause mild tummy upset; sap can irritate skin—discourage chewing/handle with gloves.
Where It Works Best
- Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (SA: protect from harsh afternoon sun).
- Soil: Well-drained loam, sandy loam or clay loam
- Water Needs: Keep evenly moist while establishing; once established, deep soak weekly in summer (more in heatwaves), rare in winter if dry.
- Maintenance: Remove spent flower spikes; trim tatty leaves; divide congested clumps in autumn/spring; watch snails/slugs.
- Lifespan: 10–20+ years (long-lived perennial; established clumps can persist for decades with occasional division and good drainage)
- Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
- Soil pH: Neutral (adaptable: Acidic–Alkaline).
Landscape & Design Ideas
- Mass/cluster for dramatic foliage
- Understorey in part shade
- Feature in large containers
- Foliage contrast with strappy grasses and dark evergreens
Why You Will Love It
That ghosted white variegation and bold leaves add instant architecture—low-maintenance drama for shaded spots.