Acanthus ornaments

I don’t know what is true, but some say that the acanthus ornament, the basis for the decoration on capitals of the Corinthian order, is based on Acanthus spinosus, other say that it is based on the plant shown here, Acanthus mollis. It is one of the oldest cultivated garden plants, dating back to ancient times in the mediterranean are. This bee-pollinated plant is still cultivated, and also known as Bear’s Breeches. I’m sure there are much more to say about Acanthus mollis and family Acanthaceae!

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