It is Acanthus also known as Bears Breeches, one of my favorites, I
have a huge bed of them and they are very easy to grow from seed.

Kate


They aren't usually white are they?



I don't know about 'usual' but I think there is a white form.



Sacha is right there is a white form, mine are pale purply and light - but
not white - when they open up

kate