Deer do eat bear’s breeches (Acanthus mollis) but they generally avoid it due to its prickly nature. Bear’s breeches have large, spiky leaves with coarse hairs that create a sandpapery, rough surface. This texture makes it less palatable to deer, as they tend to prefer softer, more tender foliage. The prickly leaves act as a deterrent, making it less likely for deer to browse on these plants.
I have personally grown bear’s breeches in my garden, and despite having a significant deer population in the area, I have rarely seen any evidence of deer feeding on them. The plants have thrived and remained relatively untouched by deer. However, it’s important to note that deer preferences can vary depending on the region and availability of other food sources.
While bear’s breeches may not be a top choice for deer, it’s always wise to take precautions if you live in an area with a high deer population. Deer can adapt their feeding habits based on factors such as food scarcity, so it’s possible that they may nibble on bear’s breeches if other preferred food sources are limited. Additionally, young or newly planted bear’s breeches may be more vulnerable to deer browsing.
To further protect your bear’s breeches from deer, you can consider using deer-resistant strategies such as fencing, repellents, or planting other deer-resistant plants nearby. It’s also helpful to create a diverse garden with a mix of plants that deer are less likely to eat, as this can help deter them from focusing on any one particular plant.
While deer may occasionally eat bear’s breeches, their prickly leaves and rough texture make them less appealing to deer. However, it’s always a good idea to be vigilant and take preventative measures to protect your plants from potential deer damage.