Species

2 other cultivars

perennial RHS Award

Rue Ledan Bear's Breeches

Q: What zones can Rue Ledan Bear's Breeches grow in?

Rue Ledan 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.

Q: Is Rue Ledan Bear's Breeches deer resistant?

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

Q: When does Rue Ledan Bear's Breeches bloom?

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

Q: Does Rue Ledan Bear's Breeches need full sun?

Rue Ledan Bear's Breeches does best in part shade.

Q: Is Rue Ledan Bear's Breeches drought tolerant?

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

Acanthus mollis 'Rue Ledan'

$17.50

The Story

Plant Bio

Acanthus mollis, commonly known as Bear's breeches, is known for its large, glossy leaves and standout flower spikes.

Rue Ledan is distinguished by its particularly tall flower spikes and a more compact growth habit, making it a popular choice for garden borders.

Uses & Benefits:

Acanthus mollis Rue Ledan adds architectural texture and elegant white flowers to shaded and moist garden areas, providing year-round interest.

Its robust foliage can serve as a natural screen or backdrop, while attracting beneficial insects.

Supports pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to garden biodiversity.

SpeciesAcanthus mollisBear's Breeches

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mediterranean region

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Dancing Oaks

<1 Gal Pot

In Stock$17.50

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck well-draining soil around roots for stability.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Transplant seedlings in early spring after last frost.
Fertilize lightly in spring with balanced fertilizer.
Prune spent flower stalks to promote new blooms.
Mulch around base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure good airflow around plants to prevent fungal issues.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells 💧
Prune to shape and remove dead growth ✂️
Use organic compost for fertilizing 🌱
Monitor for pests and treat early
Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

Overwater, leading to root rot ❌
Allow soil to become waterlogged ❌
Neglect pruning after flowering ❌
Use chemical pesticides indiscriminately ❌
Plant in dense shade, which hampers growth ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Textured perennial borderShade garden accentMoisture-rich garden bed

Companion Plants

HostaFerns Astilbe Ligularia Heuchera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions