How to identify Rough cocklebur (Xanthium strumarium)
Rough cocklebur, also known as Common cocklebur, Large cocklebur, Canada cocklebur
Rough cocklebur is an herbaceous plant that typically reaches heights of 2-4 feet (60-120 cm). It thrives in moist to wet soils, comprising sandy loam or loam, and favors a habitat with full sun to partial shade exposure. This plant cannot develop in environments devoid of sunlight. Morphologically, rough cocklebur is characterized by its robust stem and broad, oval to heart-shaped leaves. The foliage has a rough texture, and the plant is known for its spiny, bur-like seed pods that are instrumental in seed dispersal.
Lifespan: Annual
Plant Type: Herb
Leaf Type: Semi-evergreen
Robust stem with short white hairs and dark streaks, reaching up to 3 feet (90 cm) in height.
Broad, oval to heart-shaped leaves up to 8 inches (20 cm) long, with sandpaper texture.
Spiny, bur-like seed pods that aid in seed dispersal, measuring 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm).
Distinctive fruit with hooked prickles, 1/2 to 1.5 inches (1.3 to 3.8 cm) long, in brown or green hues.
Greenish, axillary flowers lacking petals and scent, blooming in late summer to early fall.
The leaves of rough cocklebur are up to 8 inches (20 cm) long and have an ovate to triangular shape. They feature stiff hairs and irregularly lobed margins. The upper surface is notably rough, with a sandpaper texture, while the underside is a lighter green. These distinct characteristics make the leaves easily recognizable.
The flowers of rough cocklebur are greenish and found in the axils of leaves. This plant produces monoecious heads containing either pistillate or staminate florets. The pistillate heads are notably transformed into hard, pricky burs. These burs typically measure around 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm) in length. The flowers of rough cocklebur do not have noticeable petals and lack a distinct scent. Blooming generally occurs in late summer to early fall.
The stem of rough cocklebur is characterized by short white hairs, giving it a somewhat fuzzy texture. It features dark red or black streaks that provide a striking contrast against the lighter areas. The stem can be round or show slight ribbing, contributing to a somewhat uneven surface. Typically, stems can reach up to 3 feet (90 cm) in height, with a thickness of around 0.3 inches (0.8 cm). This combination of color, texture, and ribbing is crucial for identifying rough cocklebur.
The fruit of rough cocklebur is distinctive and easily recognizable by its 1/2 to 1.5-inch (about 1.3 to 3.8 cm) elongated oval shape. The fruit is a two-chambered bur that has a rough exterior covered in hooked prickles. These prickles facilitate attachment to animal fur or clothing, aiding in seed dispersal. Mature fruits may exhibit a hardened, woody texture and can vary in color, typically presenting shades of brown or greenish hues as they age.
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Scientific Classification of Rough cocklebur
