Spiky flowering plant identity?

I think its Acanthus mollis, but be warned, once you've planted it, if it likes where it is, you'll never get rid of it, and it spreads. Nice plant though.

That was quick - thanks for the info (and warning)!

There are a couple of nice ones with variegated leaves now too, check out 'Whitewater' and 'Tasmanian Angel ' ;-)

Acanthus spinosus?

Oh yea, might well be Jimmytheone, Acanthus either way, but could be A. spinosus, leaves do look a bit narrower.

I'd repeat the warning you can't get rid of it without a lot of dedication.

Its also called "Bears Breeches" :o))
I've got it & is popping up all over the area, I also have one in a big half barrel, best place for it & "Beware" it's flower heads are on the prickly side........ OUCH!!!!!!..... Told You LOL :o))

And the leaves have been copied on carvings in stone over the centuries, especially by the Romans

And before that the Greeks.

Fascinating Andrew, isnt it, we've no doubt all seen the carvings but probably not associated them with Acanthus. It never goes mad in my garden, I think the clay stops it in its tracks.

Simbad: Wow I have just checked out A. 'Whitewater' and 'Tasmanian Angel ' beautiful, arent they.

Dawnsaunt - I have an interest in architecture. There are three designs for the capital (the carving at the top of the pillars) in ancient Greek buildings - Doric, Ionian and Corinthian. The Corinthian is base on the acanthus leaf.

Interesting Andrew, I will google.

I believe the Romans introduced it to Britain.

I have them in my garden never found them spreading a GOOD plant really tough,very pricklie,