Also known as Burweed · Californian Burr · Cocklebur
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Xanthium orientale, or Common Cocklebur, is an annual herbaceous weed known for its spiny burrs. It thrives in disturbed soils. All parts, especially seedlings and seeds,
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Thrives in full sun.
100% intensity
Requires moderate moisture but tolerates dry conditions.
100% intensity
Prefers moist, fertile, disturbed soils but tolerates a wide range of soil types including heavy clays.
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures for active growth.
100% intensity
Outdoor
50% intensity
Typically requires no fertilization, thriving in nutrient-rich soils.
0% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant are toxic, especially seedlings and seeds, due to the presence of carboxyatractyloside. Ingestion can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, liver damage, and death in livestock and humans.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Common Cocklebur is a resilient annual that generally relies on natural rainfall. While it can tolerate dry conditions once established, it thrives in areas with moderate soil moisture.
Supplemental watering is typically unnecessary and not recommended, as it is a weed species that can quickly outcompete desired plants in moist environments.
Pruning is not a standard practice for Common Cocklebur, as it is considered a weed. Control efforts focus on preventing seed production.
This involves physically removing or cutting down plants before the burrs mature and disperse seeds. Early removal is crucial to manage its spread and reduce its impact on cultivated areas.
Common Cocklebur primarily propagates through its distinctive burrs, which contain seeds. These burrs readily attach to animal fur, clothing, and machinery, facilitating widespread dispersal.
Seeds can remain viable in the soil for several years, contributing to persistent weed problems. It is not propagated intentionally for cultivation.
Repotting is not applicable to Common Cocklebur, as it is an outdoor annual weed and not cultivated as a potted plant. Its aggressive growth habit and extensive root system make it unsuitable for container growing.
Control measures focus on preventing its establishment and spread in natural or agricultural settings.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Common Cocklebur (Xanthium orientale)
Where Common Cocklebur (Xanthium orientale) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Xanthium |
| Species | Xanthium orientale |
Similar in genus Xanthium
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
