Goathead burr (Sclerolaena bicornis) is an annual herb native to Australia, known for its spiny fruits that can damage livestock feet and puncture tires.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun is essential.
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
25% intensity
Extremely drought-tolerant, prone to root rot if overwatered.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Tolerates heat and moderate cold.
75% intensity
Prefers warm to hot temperatures. Can withstand light frosts but protect from prolonged freezing.
Not required.
0% intensity
Thrives in nutrient-poor soil; fertilization can be detrimental.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water sparingly once the soil has completely dried out. Sclerolaena bicornis is highly drought-tolerant and susceptible to root rot from overwatering.
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging, especially during cooler months when growth slows.
Pruning is usually not necessary for Sclerolaena bicornis. If the plant becomes leggy or overgrown, light pruning can be done after flowering to maintain its shape.
Remove any dead or damaged stems at any time of the year.
Propagate Sclerolaena bicornis from seed. Sow seeds in spring in a well-draining compost mix. Germination can be erratic and may require scarification or stratification to improve success rates.
Seedlings are delicate and require careful handling.
Repotting is rarely needed for Sclerolaena bicornis as it prefers to be root-bound. If repotting is essential, do so in spring before new growth begins.
Use a very gritty, free-draining compost mix and a pot with ample drainage holes.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Goathead Burr (Sclerolaena bicornis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Sclerolaena |
| Species | Sclerolaena bicornis |
Similar in genus Sclerolaena
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
