Camelthorn
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Camelthorn
Fabaceae (Pea Family)
Class A Weed
Description: A spiny, many-branched, hairless, creeping perennial. It reproduces by seed borne in reddish brown, jointed seed pods and by an extensive, deep-penetrating, horizontally spreading root system. Greenish stems have slender, yellowtipped, greenish spines 0.25 to 1.75 inches long. Leaves are alternate, wedge-shaped, hairless on the upper surface, and hair-v on the underside.
Origin: Asia
Key Characteristics:
- Slender, greenish spines
- Alternate, wedge-shaped leaves
- Leaves hairless on top and hairy underneath
- Maroon to red seedpod
- Extensive root system
Distribution: Camelthorn currently has a limited distribution in the state, though Arizona has a serious problem with this weed. Impacted areas include right-of-ways, ditch banks, pastures, and recreational areas.
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