I'm sure it came in with the load of compost we picked up. I initially thought it was a watermelon because of the shape of the leaves, but it's shot up, got thorns on it, and is getting ready to bloom, so it's definitely not a watermelon.
What is This?
I is Buffalo Bur a native plant with prickles and pretty flowers.
http://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SORO
Well darnit! Why couldn't it be something ugly? Now I need to decide if I should keep it, relocate it or yank it out. Maybe I'll let it grow and collect seeds. Is it beneficial for butterflies or hummers?
It is an annual so it won't las forever, I think it would be of more benefit to bees, than to butterflies, but you never know.
It is pretty but the spines on the mature plants look wicked.
I think I would get rid of that thing...
It's already gone to the yard waste bag. :)
Good choice, Stephanie...too many other plants that benefit. This one is a horrible pest and takes several years to break the re-seeding cycle since the seeds remain viable in the soil for several years...!
Notice that I have remained neutral, but I must say that I have never had a problem with this plant.
Yes, there are other plants that would be easier to handle, this one is not for everyone, but I am sure every plant has a purpose.
And Jo, you ARE a saint !!!!
Thank you Becky, glad to see you posting.
The deciding factor was that it's in my vegetable garden. LOL
Not every plant is a good garden subject.
I'm with you Josephine. They grow on my property and I leave them be BUT they are not in my veggie garden or flowerbed. They are in the pastures and other incultivated areas so I don't really notice them. If I had limited space I dont know if I would want these around. Lol
Dont they produce some kind of fruit? Not saying it is edible but it looks like a tomato.