perennial

Tasmanian Angel Bear's Breeches

Acanthus mollis 'Tasmanian Angel'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate, drought tolerant once established

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Acanthus mollis, commonly known as Bear's Breeches, is a perennial herb distinguished by its large, deeply divided, glossy green foliage and tall spikes of white flowers with purple bracts, forming an elegant architectural display. This cultivar is prized for its dramatic variegated foliage; the large, deeply lobed leaves are green with bold white margins and splashes. The flower spikes have pink and cream bracts.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking purple foliage and flowers, enhancing garden aesthetic.

Drought tolerant and low maintenance, ideal for water-wise gardens.

Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or cuttings into moist soil in early spring.
Water regularly until established, about 6 weeks.
Provide full sun to partial shade for best growth.
Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Divide every 3–4 years in early spring for optimal health.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
Prune back after flowering to maintain shape
Fertilize annually in spring
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
Do not disturb roots excessively
Avoid heavy clay soils without proper drainage
Do not fertilize late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall purple borderDrought-tolerant garden feature

Companion Plants

Lavender Salvia Echinacea Coreopsis Russian Sage

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tasmanian Angel Bear's Breeches questions

What zones can Tasmanian Angel Bear's Breeches grow in?

Tasmanian Angel Bear's Breeches is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Tasmanian Angel Bear's Breeches deer resistant?

Yes — Tasmanian Angel Bear's Breeches is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Tasmanian Angel Bear's Breeches bloom?

Tasmanian Angel Bear's Breeches typically blooms in early to mid-summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tasmanian Angel Bear's Breeches need full sun?

Tasmanian Angel Bear's Breeches does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Tasmanian Angel Bear's Breeches drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Tasmanian Angel Bear's Breeches handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.