Whitewater™ Acanthus

Whitewater™ Acanthus (*Acanthus* ‘Whitewater’) is a vigorous, clumping bear’s breeches selected for broad green leaves splashed with white and tall summer flower spikes. Its bold foliage suits a spacious perennial border, while its strong growth and softly spiny leaf edges call for deliberate placement. ## Landscape profile The [Royal Horticultural Society profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/300872/acanthus-whitewater-v/details) lists a mature height of 1–1.5 m and spread of 0.5–1 m. It describes dark-green leaves with white variegation, white summer flowers, and purple bracts. The U.S. plant patent records pink-purple tints in the flowers and bracts, so the exact color impression can vary across the flower spike. In Canby, Oregon, the patent describes flowering in May and June; bloom timing shifts with climate. ## Breeder and patent Breeder Janet N. Egger selected ‘Whitewater’ from a cross of *Acanthus* ‘Summer Beauty’ and *A. mollis* ‘Tasmanian Angel’. The cultivar was introduced by [Terra Nova Nurseries](https://www.terranovanurseries.com/resources/patent-list/), whose patent list identifies U.S. plant patent PP23342. The [patent record](https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP23342P3/en) describes the cultivar’s variegation and vigor; consult it for the formal rights and propagation details. ## Growing conditions The RHS recommends full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil, and rates the cultivar drought resistant once established. The patent gives a USDA hardiness range of zones 7–11 from its trial observations; actual winter performance depends on local conditions. Established plants can be bold in borders, but avoid treating the drought rating as permission to neglect watering during establishment or extreme heat. ## Maintenance Allow room for a clumping perennial that grows vigorously, and keep it where spreading roots and spiny leaf margins will not create problems. The RHS classifies it as deciduous, while the patent notes that plants in mild-winter Canby may not go fully dormant, so foliage persistence depends on climate. Cut old flower stems after bloom and remove unwanted shoots before they establish.