Acanthus

A bold, handsome plant with large, dark green leaves. Especially striking in summer when the upright spikes of pinkish and white flowers appear. The leaves, while resembling those of thistles, are soft to the touch. The flower stalks, however, are armed with spines. Best in full sun, in good, well-drained soil. Said to be the most cold-hardy of the Acanthus species, but it is advisable to mulch for winter in cold areas, at least until well established.