PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full, unfiltered sunlight for optimal flowering and growth; tolerates intense heat and direct sun exposure
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water deeply only when the top 5–10 cm of soil is completely dry to avoid root rot
Temperature
Thrives in warm to hot temperatures; tolerates light frost but will die back in prolonged cold weather
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnately compound, opposite pairs of small, oblong, bright green leaflets
- Flower: Bright yellow, five-petaled blooms (1–2 cm diameter) that open in the morning and close by mid-afternoon
- Fruit: Woody, spiny burs with rigid, sharp spines that attach to fur, tires, or clothing for seed dispersal
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply once every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry fully between waterings
Fertilization
Diluted low-nitrogen liquid feed once monthly. Minimal fertilization is needed; avoid high-nitrogen products that encourage excessive foliage growth over flowering
Eggshell powder top-dressing：Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into a fine powder; sprinkle lightly on the soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve soil drainage; avoid direct contact with plant stems to prevent potential irritationPruning
- Remove dead or yellowing foliage to maintain a tidy growth habit and improve air circulation
- Trim spreading stems in garden settings to control invasive growth and prevent overcrowding
- Clear mature spiny burs promptly to reduce the risk of accidental injury to pets, humans, or damage to tires
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort
Humans: Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset and mucosal irritation from all parts of the plant
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Traditional medicinal use in some cultures for hormonal support and urinary health; not approved by the FDA for therapeutic use
