The Herbarium at the University of Georgia Poisonous Plants of Georgia
The Herbarium of the University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
Common Name:
Scientific Name:
Cocklebur Xanthium spp. L.
Family:
 Asteraceae
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This plant may be poisonous to both humans and animals. Please refer to the "Symptoms" section below for information regarding susceptiblity of animal species to poisoning.
Description:
 Cockleburs are annuals that vary in appearance. The leaves are alternate and hairy. The inflorescence is a head. The fruit is covered in hooked spines and commonly called a bur.
Toxic Part: The seeds and cotyledons (very young seedlings) are especially toxic and mature plants also pose a threat.
Toxin: The toxic compound is carboxyatractyloside.
Symptoms: Clinical signs include depression, nausea, lack of coordination, spastic gaits, hyperexcitability, blindness, coma, and death. Intoxication due to consumption has been reported in swine and cattle.
Treatment: Recommend treatment is activated charcoal.
References: 20, 24, 180, 200
This site is NOT a substitute for the advice of medical physician. Plant poisonings can, in certain cases, result in SERIOUS HARM AND EVEN DEATH. Please contact a physician or your local poison control center if you suspect any plant poisoning. A link to the Georgia Poison Control Center can be found on the "References and Links" page of this site.