Xanthium strumarium

Xanthium strumarium, commonly known as cocklebur, is a weedy annual plant belonging to the genus Xanthium within the Asteraceae family. This plant is found across much of Europe and parts of North America.1

Cocklebur is characterized by its round clusters of male flowers positioned above the female flowers. The female flowers are enclosed in oval burs that are green, yellow, or brown, and covered in hooked spines and two horn-like spines. These burs readily attach to animal fur, aiding in the plant's widespread dissemination. Notably, Xanthium strumarium is toxic to grazing animals and has historical uses in herbal remedies. The genus name Xanthium originates from the Greek word for yellow, referencing its use in dyeing hair.12