Devil's Thorn

Rumex spinosus

Devil's Thorn is a spiky plant that can be found in fields and gardens. Its sharp thorns can be tricky, but it also has pretty green leaves that help it grow strong.

Habitat: Grasslands

Appearance

The Devil's Thorn is a low-growing plant with reddish stems and distinctive leaves that often have a wavy or slightly crinkled edge. Its most notable feature is the hard, spiny, three-winged burrs that enclose its seeds, giving it its formidable name.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderCaryophyllalesFamilyPolygonaceaeGenusRumex

Devil's Thorn

Interesting facts

Its "thorns" aren't true thorns, but hardened parts of its flowers that make a spiky casing!

The plant’s reddish stems and leaves can be a clue to its presence, especially in dry, sunny spots!

This plant is so tough it can often be found growing in cracks in pavements or dusty roadsides!

Though spiky, young leaves of its relatives are sometimes eaten as a tangy green, like wild spinach!

Special abilities

Devil's Thorn has tough, spiky burrs that protect its seeds, allowing them to survive harsh conditions and be carried by animals.

Devil's Thorn's spiky burrs easily attach to fur or clothing, helping its seeds travel far and wide to new places.

Devil's Thorn has leaves that can withstand tough, dry soils, helping it thrive where other plants struggle.

Measurements & details

Height: 10-30 cm
Spread: 30-60 cm
Bloom Season: Spring to early summer
Edible: Yes
Toxicity: Mild
Lifecycle: Annual
Pollination Method: Wind

Ecological connections

eats

Ruby Tiger Moth

Phragmatobia fuliginosa

Its larvae munch on Rumex leaves.

eats

Common Blue

Polyommatus icarus

Butterfly larvae feed on its leaves.

eaten by

Domestic Sheep

Ovis aries

Sheep sometimes graze on young plants.

Traits

Ornamental

Ornamental plants are cultivated primarily for their aesthetic appeal, enhancing landscapes and gardens with their attractive foliage, flowers, or form.