The acanthus is an ornamental plant also known as Acanthus. It is characterized by large, lobed leaves, whose shape is often used in architecture and ornamental design. The shape of acanthus leaves is particularly famous for its use in the Corinthian capitals of classical architecture, where they are often depicted intertwined and stylized to decorate columns. This decorative element has been widely used in Greek and Roman art and architecture, and has continued to be a distinctive feature in many later architectural styles.