Acanthus hungaricus White Lips

Acanthus hungaricus 'White Lips', also known as White Lips Hungarian Bear’s Breech, brings a touch of elegance and drama to any garden setting. This hardy perennial forms a lush clump of deep green, lobed leaves that create an eye-catching rosette at the base. In early summer, tall, architectural flower spikes emerge, each adorned with distinctive white, lip-shaped flowers and striking purple hoods. These dramatic spires reach up to 2 feet, adding height and texture to your garden and making a bold statement that lasts well into mid-summer.

Though native to the rocky clearings of the Balkan region, 'White Lips' thrives in rich, well-drained soil in garden conditions, where it rewards with robust growth and a reliable, long-lasting bloom. Ideal for borders or as a statement plant in a cottage garden, its semi-evergreen foliage also provides year-round interest, even through the cooler months. Perfect for a relaxed planting scheme or as a bold anchor in more formal designs, Acanthus hungaricus 'White Lips' effortlessly adds structure, charm, and a hint of the wild to your garden.

When planting Acanthus 'White Lips,' enrich the soil by adding well-rotted compost to the planting hole, ensuring a nutritious foundation for growth. During hot, dry spells, give this plant a good soak to help prevent powdery mildew from setting in, as it thrives best with consistent moisture. Once established, the plant may form dense clumps over time. To keep it looking its best and to prevent overcrowding, lift and divide these larger clumps every few years in early spring. This simple care routine will keep 'White Lips' healthy, vibrant, and flourishing for seasons to come.

Position: Full sun / light shade
Soil: Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Moisture: Low moisture
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Eventual height & spread: 0.7-1 Meter
Very floriferous
Flowers: Jul-Aug
Attracts: Butterflies
Dispatch: Spring March/April