Bear's Breeches

Bear's breeches commands attention as a clump-forming perennial grown equally for its foliage and its bold architectural presence. The basal rosette of deeply lobed, glossy dark green leaves reaches 2 feet long, their soft spiny edges inspiring both the common name and their appearance in classical Corinthian architectural motifs. In late spring to midsummer, substantial flower spikes rise well above the foliage, each spike dense with snapdragon-like hooded blooms in creamy white with reddish-purple bracts. The plant's leafy mound can reach 4 feet tall and spreads gradually wider; when in full flower the entire specimen stretches 5 to 6 feet high. Native to the Mediterranean region, it performs best with moderate moisture and tolerates a wide pH range.

Plant bear's breeches in sun to part shade where it receives moderate soil moisture and good drainage; the plant dislikes waterlogged conditions. In cool-winter climates, mulch the root zone with a thick layer to protect emerging growth from frost damage; the foliage often emerges late in spring but may persist through mild winters before needing cleanup. Monitor for slug and snail activity on emerging foliage, particularly in damp seasons. After flowering concludes in mid-summer, remove spent flower spikes to encourage next season's display. The plant spreads via creeping rhizomes and can become assertive in loose, open soils, so root barriers help contain it in tight garden spaces. Division offers the easiest propagation method, though root cuttings will establish new plants. Three cultivars appear in the trade: 'Tasmanian Angel', 'Whitewater', and 'Winter Water', each offering foliage and bloom variations.