Acanthus hungaricus (syns. A. balcanicus, A. longifolius, A. longifolius var. hungaricus) – A bold perennial with pink, purple and white labiate florets architecturally constructed on tall spikes to four feet when once seen are hard to forget. The flower stalks rise up from the middle of a foliage mound standing about 18 to 24 inches tall on an imposing specimen. Glossy, coarsely lobed arching leaves are reminiscent of giant dandelion leaves – a good textural contrast to other herbaceous companions. Hungarian Bear's Breeches with greater hardiness than other closely related species allows more of us in a greater swath in the north to enjoy this extraordinary, bold genus. Cottage garden, the perennial border or wherever a full sun, bold herbaceous specimen is visualized. Extra phosphate at planting time is helpful in an average to not overly fertile and draining soil. Full to mostly sunny conditions. For gardeners towards the northern end of its range spring planting is advised. Established Hungarian Acanthus, pot grown via division.