AI overview
Acanthus is a genus of plants known for their distinctive spiky or lobed leaves and colorful flower spikes. The genus has been culturally significant for centuries, with its leaf shape famously inspiring decorative designs in classical architecture and art.
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Wikidata facts
- Instance of
- taxon
- Parent taxon
- Acanthaceae
- Named after
- Acantha
- Image
- Acanthus montanus3.jpg
Show 4 more facts
- P105
- genus
- P427
- Acanthus mollis
- P1889
- Akant
via Wikidata · CC0
Article
Acanthus is a genus of about 30 species of flowering plants in the family Acanthaceae, native to tropical and warm temperate regions, with the highest species diversity in the Mediterranean Basin and Asia. This flowering plant is nectar-producing and depends on butterflies, such as Anartia fatima, and other nectar-feeding organisms to distribute its pollen. Common names include acanthus and bear's breeches. The genus name derives from Ancient Greek ἄκανθος (ákanthos) for Acanthus mollis, a plant that was commonly imitated in Corinthian capitals.
The genus comprises herbaceous perennial plants, rarely subshrubs, with spiny leaves and flower spikes bearing white or purplish flowers. Size varies from 0.4 to 2 m (1.3 to 6.6 ft) in height.