Back Dune/ Sandbur

COMMON NAME: Sandbur
OTHER COMMON NAME(S): Sandspur, Dune Sandbur
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Cenchrus tribuloides
FAMILY: Poaceae
COMMUNITY: Secondary Dune
STATUS: Native
LIFESPAN: Annual
HEIGHT: twelve-fourteen inches (often trailing or spreading)
FLOWERING TIME: July-October
FRUITING TIME:
DISTRIBUTION: Coastal sands-south eastern N.Y to Florida and Texas
IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS: Erect or spreading winter grass with gray-green, hairless leaves ~ flowers scattered and infrequent ~ fruit encased in spiny, round burrs

GENERAL INFORMATION: These pesky weeds are not usually noticed until the burs are discovered clinging to clothing or pets. The spines have minute barbs which can break off under the skin and become quite painful. In Mexico, different species of sandburs are used to treat tumors. The seeds are scorched to make herbal coffee, or bread. Before the burs harden, they can be used
as fodder.

Please note: While harvesting wild berries/fruit is permitted at Island Beach State Park, visitors must adhere to park regulations at all times and must not damage vegetation or go off designated trails. This information is presented for educational purposes only.ark. New Jersey, 08752.