This plant belongs to a small genus related to Docks (Rumex) and from which it is distinguished by its spiny fruits. It is an annual which can produce its hardened spiny fruits in quite a short time hence its other names: Spiny Emex, Lesser jack and Devils' Thorn. It can be a nuisance weed in cereal crops and a hazard to animals.

Cabo de Gata, Spain 20th March 2007

Added on 27th December 2008, updated 29th March 2010