Rewilding My Lot

In September 2023 I planted two little Flame Acanthus (Anisacanthus quadrifidus var. wrightii) bushes, one in the front pollinator garden, and one in the back garden. They didn’t bloom last year, and they froze back in January, but they have now regrown to exceed their original size.

The two plants, although purchased at the same time, have had very different bloom schedules. The one behind the house (almost full sun, facing west) started blooming a full two months ago. This matches more what I see in the Seguin area.

The plant in front of the house (almost full sun, facing east, a little more sheltered from wind) has only now produced its first flower. It also doesn’t look as strong as its sibling.

Both Flame Acanthus are growing, and that’s the main thing. In truth, the one in front is going to have less space available for it so if that one stays smaller, I wouldn’t mind.

The mismatch in development between these two plants is one reason for my recent project to enhance soil quality in the front flower bed with compost and mulch, because I wondered if poorer soil was a factor in the difference.