Spiny Cocklebur

Xanthium spinosum

Physical Characteristics

Xanthium spinosum is a ANNUAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from July to October, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. America. A locally established casual in Britain[17].

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Emetic Miscellany Styptic The whole plant is an active styptic for both local and general application[4]. It is said to be a valuable and sure specific in the treatment of hydrophobia[4]. The plant is also diaphoretic, diuretic and sedative[61]. An infusion of the root has been used as an emetic[257].

Known Hazards

Poisonous[65, 76]. Most members of this genus are toxic to grazing animals and are usually avoided by them[222]. The seed also contains toxins[222].