Acanthus hungaricus 'White Lips' - 2026

Acanthus hungaricus 'White Lips' is a striking semi-evergreen perennial cousin of the traditional bear’s breeches, known for its dramatic, bicolour blooms and deeply cut foliage. In early to mid-summer, it sends up tall, spiky flower stems adorned with pure white, lip-shaped blooms topped by rich purple bracts, creating a bold visual contrast that is both sophisticated and sculptural.

This clump-forming plant reaches approximately 70 cm in height when in flower, with a similar spread of around 70 cm, though some sources note it can grow up to 100 cm under ideal conditions. It thrives in a sunny or lightly shaded position, favouring deep, fertile, moist yet well-drained soils, particularly loam, though it tolerates a variety of soil types. Fully hardy and fast-growing, Acanthus 'White Lips' is deer-resistant, attracts pollinators such as butterflies and bumblebees, and works well in cottage or informal garden settings where its architectural form can shine.