FLOWER GARDEN

Of the two species of acanthus, spinosus is so called from its spiny leaves; mollis, or bear’s breech, is characterized by large, deeply cut leaves, with soft spines. The plant grows about live feet high, flowering in summer, and is well adapted for herbaceous borders. Latifolius, a form of mollis with heart-shaped leaves and white or pink flowers, is unsuitable for small gardens.

The best way of raising a stock is to sow seeds in a warm frame or greenhouse in spring. Further increase can be effected by division in autumn or spring. See illustration below.