This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: deep, fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: fast growing
• Flowering period: May to July
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Prolific and easy to grow, this acanthus produces upright flower spikes which bear white or pale pink flowers, each with a green or purplish hood, above mounds of deeply divided foliage. The rigid habit of the flower spikes makes them ideal for creating vertical interest in the herbaceous border, and they also look good in more naturalistic planting schemes. Originating from open woodlands and scrub, this form is more tolerant of shade than most.
  
  
• Garden care: To minimise the risk of powdery mildew taking hold ensure that the plant is watered well during hot, dry spells. To rejuvenate and minimise congestion lift and divide large clumps in autumn or spring.