What is an Acanthus in architecture?
Acanthus, in architecture and decorative arts, a stylized ornamental motif based on a characteristic Mediterranean plant with jagged leaves, Acanthus spinosus. It was first used by the Greeks in the 5th century bc on temple roof ornaments, on wall friezes, and on the capital of the Corinthian column.
What does the Acanthus leaf symbolize?
The acanthus is a vegetal motif rich in symbolism and has long been associated with the notion of rebirth6. It is a symbol of immortality and resurrection, 7 and as a decorative motif it has been used as early as 500 BCE in Grecian art8.
For what was the Acanthus plant used as a model?
Corinthian leaf motif
The leaves were used as the model for the Corinthian leaf motif in ancient Greek and Roman architecture. It grows to 4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide but reaches 5-6 feet tall when in bloom. The tall flower spikes have many 2-lipped tubular flowers in purple and white that bloom May to July.
What is acanthus mollis in Greek?
The Bear’s Breeches is a rhizomatous perennial plant, which holds a special place in Greek civilization: its leaves were a source of inspiration for the sculptor Callimachus, who created the Corinthian capital.
Is Acanthus mollis invasive?
Acanthus are perennial herbaceous plants from the Mediterranean region which are striking architectural plants but, make no mistake, they are actually also fairly invasive garden ‘thugs’ with quite nasty prickles even on their flower spikes.
Why is acanthus mollis called bear’s breeches?
Acanthus mollis) which means ‘Cultivated Spiny Bear Bract’, because they thought the curved bracts on the flower stalk looked like a bear claw. Over time people mis-pronounced or mis-translated the word ‘branca’ into ‘breech’, leading to the common name bear’s breech.
What is the difference between Acanthus mollis and acanthus Spinosus?
About this cultivar: Acanthus mollis is very similar to Acanthus spinosus. The main difference being the leaves and flowers: spinosus tends to produce more flower spikes but its leaves are less broad and less soft than mollis. Soil: Almost any soil – grows well in Ballyrobert!
Why is Acanthus mollis called bear’s breeches?
Are all Acanthus invasive?
Do I cut back Acanthus?
Cut back stems after flowering, and tidy foliage in spring. More on growing bear’s breeches: Acanthus mollis ‘Whitewater’ Acanthus sennii.
Is Acanthus mollis Rue Ledan invasive?
Acanthus mollis, for example (Bear’s breeches) has a very invasive common version with a purple tint to its flowers. I have planted three Acanthus mollis ‘Rue Ledan’. These have pure white flowers and are less invasive. It has taken them a few years to get established but they are now forming very satisfying clumps.
How does Acanthus spread?
The plant will spread via underground runners, and in areas with yearlong warmth similar to its native Mediterranean climate, it may very well take over your garden. Acanthus plant care is fairly easy. It will tolerate virtually any soil type as long as it’s well drained.
What do you need to know about acanthus interior design?
Acanthus Interior Design are dedicated professionals who in combination create luxurious and livable homes for the way our clients want to live. Acanthus Interior Design utilise skills in architecture and design in unrivalled harmony. A dedication to the interpretation of the client brief creates spaces that are elegant, comfortable and individual.
Who are the principal architects of acanthus architects?
Acanthus is made up of a team of dedicated design professionals led by principal architects Mark Glen and Larry Snively. Founded in 1995 with an emphasis on highly crafted residential work, the firm has widened its focus to bring the same careful attention to detail to a range of commercial commissions.
What kind of plant was the acanthus plant?
Acanthus. Acanthus, in architecture and decorative arts, a stylized ornamental motif based on a characteristic Mediterranean plant with jagged leaves, Acanthus spinosus. It was first used by the Greeks in the 5th century bc on temple roof ornaments, on wall friezes, and on the capital of the Corinthian column.
What kind of ornament is an acanthus leaf?
Corinthian order, one of the classical orders of architecture. Its main characteristic is an ornate capital carved with stylized acanthus leaves. See order.… Ornament, in architecture, any element added to an otherwise merely structural form, usually for purposes of decoration or embellishment.