Acanthus mollis Snowstorm: Variegated Acanthus

Bear’s Breeches

You can discover everything you need to know about growing the majestic acanthus plant, including the popular Acanthus mollis and its striking ‘Snowstorm’ variant. This comprehensive guide will help you master cultivating these spectacular perennials, from initial planting to long-term care and maintenance. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting, you’ll find valuable information to help your acanthus plants thrive and create stunning focal points.

Acanthus plants, commonly known as Bear’s Breeches, make a bold statement in any garden with their impressive architectural presence. These large perennial plants feature handsome lobed leaves and produce impressive flower spikes reaching up to 1.5 metres. The plant grows naturally in partial shade to full sun positions, creating dramatic focal points that add structure and interest throughout the growing season. Their versatility and robust nature make them excellent choices for novice and experienced gardeners looking to add drama to their outdoor spaces.

The standard green variety and variegated acanthus add architectural interest with their structured foliage, creating eye-catching displays that last from spring through autumn. Many gardeners find these plants easy to grow and maintain once established, appreciating their reliability and long-lasting impact on the garden. Their historical significance in classical architecture and art adds an extra layer of interest, making them particularly suitable for formal or Mediterranean-style gardens where their classical associations can be fully appreciated.

The most common variety, Acanthus mollis, thrives in UK gardens and has proven its worth in countless landscape designs. This standard green form produces beautiful white flowers atop tall spikes in July, creating a magnificent display that continues for several weeks. The Acanthus mollis ‘Snowstorm’ offers striking variegated foliage that adds an extra dimension of interest, making it perfect for brightening shadier areas of the garden or creating contrast against darker plants.

Please carefully review your garden’s conditions when selecting varieties, as the right choice will ensure success with minimal maintenance. All types need well-draining soil and protection from harsh winds, but they’re otherwise adaptable to various garden situations. Look for healthy plug plants from quality suppliers, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about the specific requirements of different varieties. The initial investment in strong, healthy plants will pay dividends in the long term through better performance and more impressive displays.

These plants grow best in temperatures between 5-30°C (41-86°F), making them well-suited to most UK gardens. They need partial shade in hot areas but can handle full sun in cooler climates, demonstrating remarkable adaptability to different light conditions; please see how they thrive in diverse environments. The soil should drain well but retain moisture, creating the perfect balance for healthy root development and strong growth throughout the season. Their adaptability makes them suitable for various garden situations, from coastal gardens to urban settings; please learn how to best care for them in your specific environment.

Adding organic matter helps create ideal growing conditions and improves the soil’s drainage and moisture retention capabilities. Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish strong roots, but these plants show good drought tolerance. A thick layer of mulch around the plants helps maintain consistent soil moisture levels and suppresses weed growth while providing essential nutrients as it breaks down over time.

Start with quality plants from a reliable supplier, ensuring they show signs of healthy growth and strong root systems. Dig holes twice the width of the root ball and at the same depth, incorporating plenty of organic matter into the planting hole. Space plants about 90cm apart to allow for their eventual spread, considering their mature size, to prevent overcrowding. The key to successful planting is thorough preparation and careful attention to spacing requirements.

Ensure water is drained thoroughly after planting, creating a shallow basin around each plant to help direct water to the roots. Add a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it away from the plant’s crown to prevent rot. The first few weeks after planting are crucial for establishment, so monitor soil moisture carefully and provide additional water during dry spells. Consider adding support stakes for taller varieties, especially in exposed gardens where strong winds might damage new growth.

Once established, these perennial plants need minimal care, making them perfect for busy gardeners who want maximum impact with minimum effort. Remove old foliage in early spring before new growth emerges, taking care not to damage emerging shoots. Water during dry spells and feed annually with a balanced fertiliser to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Regular maintenance ensures your plants remain vigorous and continue to provide impressive displays year after year.

Tall flower spikes may need support in exposed gardens, so consider installing sturdy stakes early in the growing season to ensure they withstand strong winds and snowstorms. If self-seeding is a concern, cut back flowering stems after blooming to maintain a neat appearance and prevent self-seeding. Monitor for any signs of pest damage or disease, although these plants generally resist most common garden problems. A little attention throughout the growing season will keep your acanthus looking its best and performing optimally.

Acanthus readily self-seeds in favourable conditions, offering an easy way to increase your plant collection naturally. You can also divide established clumps in spring when new growth emerges, using a sharp spade to separate healthy sections with strong roots. Root cuttings taken in winter offer another reliable propagation method, and these can be started in pots under cover to ensure successful establishment. Each propagation method has its advantages, and you should try different approaches to find what works best in your garden conditions.

Propagating early in the growing season ensures new plants have time to establish before winter. Keep propagated plants well-watered until they show strong new growth, and protect young plants from slug damage during their vulnerable early stages. Whether you’re dividing existing plants or growing from root cuttings, patience is key—these plants take time to establish, but reward the wait with impressive growth and stunning displays.

While generally trouble-free, acanthus can experience slug damage to young growth, particularly in spring when tender new shoots emerge. Wet winter soil may cause root rot, especially in heavy clay soils or areas with poor drainage; please see the guidelines for preventing such issues. Watch for a decline in plant vigour, which might indicate problems, and take action as soon as you notice any problems with growth or appearance. Prevention is often better than a cure, so creating optimal growing conditions minimises potential problems.

Most issues are resolved with improved drainage or slug control measures, and these plants typically bounce back quickly from minor setbacks. Regular monitoring helps catch problems early when they’re easier to address. In particularly wet areas, consider raising the planting area or incorporating extra grit into the soil to improve drainage, resulting in healthier plants and better growth. Maintaining good air circulation around plants and avoiding overcrowding will also help prevent fungal issues affecting foliage.

Find acanthus plants at garden centres and specialist nurseries throughout the UK, where you can inspect plants personally before purchase. Many online suppliers offer delivery of carefully packaged plants, often with detailed growing instructions and aftercare advice included. Look for customer feedback and service ratings before purchase, and don’t hesitate to contact suppliers with specific questions about their plants. Building a relationship with reliable suppliers can help ensure you get the best plants for your garden.

Please check plant descriptions carefully when buying online, paying particular attention to plant size and maturity; this will help you make an outstanding choice for your garden. Reputable sellers provide detailed information about plant size and condition, and clear photographs showing what you can expect to receive. Please consider ordering early in the growing season to give plants the best chance of establishing well, and always check delivery terms and plant guarantees before finishing your purchase. Many suppliers offer replacement guarantees for plants that fail to thrive, providing extra peace of mind.

Plant acanthus as focal points in borders or near patios, where their architectural qualities can be fully appreciated from different angles. Their large leaves create an excellent background structure for other perennials, providing a strong framework that holds interest throughout the growing season. The green or variegated foliage adds year-round interest, making them valuable additions to mixed borders and dedicated perennial gardens, great for attracting pollinators and enhancing biodiversity. Consider their mature size when planning, as these impressive plants need space to reach their full potential and create maximum impact; visit your local nursery to learn more about the best varieties for your garden.

These plants work exceptionally well in Mediterranean-style gardens, where their classical associations and structural forms complement other sun-loving plants. They also suit formal designs where strong architectural shapes are desired, creating impressive sight lines and adding vertical interest. Their ability to bridge the gap between formal and informal planting styles makes them versatile design elements. Pair them with contrasting textures and forms, such as ornamental grasses or fine-leaved perennials, to create dynamic and engaging plant combinations that evolve throughout the seasons.

The ‘Snowstorm’ variety features striking variegated leaves with cream margins that create a luminous effect in the garden, particularly shadier areas. This unique identifier distinguishes it from standard green forms, offering year-round interest even when not in flower. The plant maintains its colour throughout the growing season, providing reliable contrast and brightness in the garden landscape. The variegation pattern remains stable and doesn’t revert to plain green, making it a dependable choice for long-term planting schemes.

Like the species, it produces impressive flower spikes that rise majestically above the foliage in summer. The variegation extends its ornamental value beyond the flowering period, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking plants with multiple seasons of interest. The contrast between the cream variegation and green portions of the leaves creates a sophisticated look that works well in both contemporary and traditional garden settings. This variety combines the robust nature of the species with enhanced decorative appeal, making it particularly valuable for creating focal points or brightening partially shaded areas.

I’ve always had a soft spot for acanthus, especially Acanthus mollis ‘Snowstorm’. There’s just something magical about how its creamy-white variegated leaves light up the garden on a dull day – it’s like nature’s way of painting with light and texture. I grow mine in a partly shaded border where it contrasts beautifully with darker foliage, and every summer, those towering flower spikes make such a show that they stop visitors in their tracks. It’s one of those plants that quietly takes time to establish, but once it finds its feet, it rewards you for years with dependable structure and style. I always tell fellow gardeners to give it space and patience; it will become a true centrepiece in your garden.

• Plant in well-draining soil with partial shade to full sun
• Space plants 90cm apart to allow for growth
• Water regularly during establishment
• Remove old foliage in spring to encourage new growth. Please see the best practices for pruning.
• Support tall flower spikes if necessary
• Watch for slug damage to new growth
• Choose a position carefully, as plants resent moving once established
• Consider variegated forms for added interest
• Expect plants to reach 1.5m tall and wide
• Provide winter drainage to prevent root rot

Whether you’re drawn to the bold elegance of the traditional Bear’s Breeches or the striking variegation of ‘Snowstorm’, acanthus plants offer something truly special for any garden. With just a little preparation and the right spot, these architectural beauties will thrive for years, bringing drama, texture, and a touch of classical charm to your borders.

Check out the RHS page on Acanthus mollis Snowstorm here

If this plant caught your eye, wait until you see Houttuynia cordata Flame.

For more information on Perennials, please click here.

Q: Can you give me some information about Acanthus mollis ‘Snowstorm’?

A: Of course! Acanthus mollis ‘Snowstorm’, often known as Variegated Acanthus, is a bold, architectural perennial with striking white and green foliage. It’s ideal for adding texture, contrast, and structure to garden borders or shaded spots.

Q: What does Acanthus mollis ‘Snowstorm’ look like?

A: This variety features large, deeply lobed leaves edged in creamy white, giving it a dramatic variegated effect. In summer, tall flower spikes bearing white blooms rise above the foliage, adding height and seasonal interest. As a semi-evergreen, it offers year-round visual appeal in many gardens.

Q: Where can I buy Acanthus mollis ‘Snowstorm’?

A: You can find Acanthus mollis ‘Snowstorm’ at garden centres and from trusted online plant retailers. It’s widely available during the main planting seasons.

Q: What’s the price range for Acanthus mollis ‘Snowstorm’?

A: Prices vary depending on the plant’s size and the supplier. It’s worth comparing a few stockists to find a healthy plant at a competitive price.

Q: Do gardeners recommend this plant?

A: Absolutely. Gardeners value Acanthus mollis ‘Snowstorm’ for its bold foliage and low-maintenance nature. It’s often chosen to add impact to shaded borders or as a foliage focal point in mixed planting schemes.

Q: What does Acanthus mollis ‘Snowstorm’ look like in bloom?

A: During summer, it sends up tall spires of white flowers that beautifully complement its variegated leaves. The contrast creates a dramatic and elegant feature in any garden setting.

Q: How can I get advice on caring for my Acanthus mollis ‘Snowstorm’?

A: Many gardening websites, forums, and books offer helpful care tips. Many online retailers also include growing advice on their product pages or with delivery, so it’s worth checking their resources.

Q: What growing conditions does Acanthus mollis ‘Snowstorm’ prefer?

A: It prefers partial shade and thrives in moist but well-drained soil. Please protect it from cold, drying winds and ensure it has room to spread. Feeding in spring with a balanced plant feed will support healthy growth.

Q: Can I choose specific sizes or quantities when ordering Acanthus mollis ‘Snowstorm’?

A: Yes, many retailers offer different pot sizes and quantity options. Please always check the product details before purchasing to ensure you get the right size for your needs.