How to Grow Grecian Plants

Choose a planting location in full sun to partial shade.

Grecian pattern plant, or Acanthus mollis, is also commonly referred to as artist's acanthus and bear's breech. This herbaceous perennial is often planted as an ornamental because of the large, topical-looking foliage as well as the showy, spiky blossoms similar to snapdragons or lilacs that form above on slender stalks in the summer. Grecian plants grow best in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 7 through 10. Grown slowly from seeds or root cuttings, the quickest way to grow Grecian plants is from transplants in the spring.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Fertilizer
• Hand shears
• Mulch

Instructions

1. Select a planting location large enough for the Grecian plant that can grow 3 to 5 feet tall with 2 to 3 foot spreads. Choose a site with partial shade to full sun with well-drained rich soil. The plant will grow in most soil conditions except waterlogged areas.

2. Buy only strong, healthy looking Grecian plants from a reliable source close to the expected planting day. Stay clear of transplants appearing weak or plants with yellowing leaves. Water the plant well before planting.

3. Dig holes the same depth and double the width of the container holding the Grecian pattern plant. Remove the plant from the container, loosen the roots and then place the plant in the center of the hole.

4. Backfill the hole and then soak with water to settle the Grecian plant in place. Continue to water for the first growing season to establish the plant. Supply 1 inch of water weekly through supplemental watering in the absence of rainfall.

5. Apply a balanced fertilizer, like 20-20-20 or 10-10-10, as directed throughout the growing season, or use a time-released fertilizer at planting.

6. Remove the stalks from spent flowers, but leave the foliage through winter. Prune the dead foliage the following spring when new growth emerges.

Tips & Warnings

• Cover the area surrounding the Grecian plant with a layer of mulch to deter weeds and conserve moisture.

• The Grecian pattern plant is considered aggressive in some locations because of its spreading habit, but is controllable with root barriers, or through digging up and dividing groups of Grecian plants that form in clumps over three or more seasons.

References

• Floridata; Acanthus Mollis; Steve Christman; June 1997
• Missouri Botanical Garden: Acanthus Mollis