Xanthium is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family known for its coarse and bushy appearance. These plants are commonly referred to as cockleburs due to their distinctive fruit, which is covered in hooked spines that easily attach to animal fur and clothing. Xanthium species are typically found in temperate regions and thrive in disturbed soils such as roadsides and agricultural fields. They are considered invasive in many areas due to their rapid spread and ability to outcompete native vegetation. The leaves of Xanthium plants are usually broad and lobed, and they produce small greenish flowers. Despite their invasive nature, some species have been used in traditional medicine for their purported healing properties.
