The original form of this sea holly grows as a back mangrove plant. The variegated form is absolutely unique and beautiful and provides a good texture to any landscape or display. Even without the flowers, the whorled leaves are just a sight to behold, although one should resist the temptation and refrain from grabbing it as you would be greeted with a grimaced look on your face after being pricked by the heavily thorned leaf margin.
Now that christmas is approaching, this sea holly may be a good decorative plant for the occasion though it should not be displayed where there are curious and running children as they may hurt themselves if they fall on or touch the leaves. Hence, it is also not suitable for every garden.
NB on 3 Mar 11: I forgot to correct the identity of this plant as Acanthus mollis.
