Acanthus Mollis - Bears Breeches

Acanthus mollis is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). It is in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees.

Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Edible Uses

Not edible

Medicinal Uses

The leaves and roots are astringent, detergent, emollient and vulnerary. The plant contains appreciable quantities of mucilage and tannin. Traditionally it was used as a treatment for dislocated joints and for burns. A paste made from the plant, when applied to a dislocated joint, tends to normalize the affected muscles and ligaments, simultaneously relaxing and tightening them to encourage the joint back into its proper place.

The crushed leaves have been used as a poultice to soothe burns and scalds. For internal use, the plant's emollient properties are useful in treating irritated mucous membranes within the digestive and urinary tracts.

For more information you can visit the PFAF (plants for a future) website here.

1 plant in a 1L pot