Morning Candle Bear’s Breeches (Acanthus ‘Morning Candle’)
Morning Candle Bear’s Breeches (Acanthus ‘Morning Candle’) is a striking perennial known for its bold, deeply lobed foliage and tall, elegant flower spikes. This hybrid variety combines the classic appeal of Bear’s Breeches with enhanced hardiness and a more compact growth habit, making it a versatile choice for gardens.
Distinctive Features
Morning Candle Bear’s Breeches features large, glossy green leaves with an architectural, deeply cut shape that adds dramatic texture to any landscape. In summer, tall spikes of deep pink and white hooded flowers emerge, creating an eye-catching display. The contrast between its bold foliage and soft blooms makes it a stunning focal point.
Growing Conditions
- Sun Exposure: Prefers full sun to partial shade; blooms best with adequate light.
- Soil: Thrives in well-draining, moderately fertile soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
- Water: Requires regular watering during dry periods; drought-tolerant once established.
- Humidity: Adaptable to various humidity levels but performs best with moderate moisture.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 6-10, offering improved cold tolerance over other Acanthus varieties.
Ideal Uses
- Garden Borders: Adds bold texture and contrast in mixed perennial plantings.
- Architectural Interest: Dramatic foliage and striking flower spikes make it a standout feature.
- Shade Gardens: Thrives in partial shade, complementing other shade-loving perennials.
- Container Gardening: Suitable for large containers in patios and courtyards.
Low Maintenance Care
Morning Candle Bear’s Breeches is a hardy and adaptable plant that requires minimal upkeep once established.
- Watering: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry slightly between watering.
- Pruning: Cut back spent flower spikes after blooming to encourage fresh growth.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to support healthy foliage and flowering.
- Propagation: Easily propagated by navision or root cuttings in early spring or fall.
Why Choose Morning Candle Bear’s Breeches?
This hybrid variety offers the stunning beauty of traditional Bear’s Breeches with improved cold tolerance and a more compact growth habit, making it a standout choice for various landscapes.
- Striking Foliage: Deeply lobed, glossy leaves create a dramatic effect.
- Long-Lasting Blooms: Tall pink and white flower spikes provide seasonal interest.
- Cold Tolerant: More resilient in cooler climates compared to other Acanthus species.
- Easy to Grow: Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established.
For a bold and elegant focal point in any garden, Morning Candle Bear’s Breeches (Acanthus ‘Morning Candle’) is an outstanding choice.