Acanthus mollis

Acanthus mollis has enormous, glossy, deeply lobed leaves and tall flower spikes that are clothed in white flowers, each with a hood-like purple bract, in midsummer. It’s perfect for growing at the back of a herbaceous border and makes a striking architectural presence. The flowers are much loved by bees and can be used in fresh and dried arrangements.

Grows in well-drained, fertile soil, in full sun or partial or dappled shade. Divide congested clumps in spring or autumn. It’s a herbaceous perennial, so its foliage dies down in autumn, reappearing the following spring.