arctium

noun

Meaning

A genus of biennial plants in the sunflower family, characterized by their large leaves and hooked, burr-like flower heads.

Examples

  • Botanists classify the common burdock under the genus Arctium.
  • The sticky hooks on the flower heads of Arctium allow the seeds to hitch a ride on passing animals.

Synonyms: burdock, thistle, weed, herb