Devils thorn

Devil's thorn (Tribulus terrestris) is a herb that is widely distributed throughout southern Africa. It is a weedy, sprawling creeper and its small yellow flower is a familiar sight in Namibia. Neatly arranged, small leaflets compose of between 5 and 10 leaves and it bears a spiny fruit, hence the common name.

Unfortunately, Devil's Thorn can cause 'geeidikkop', a complex disease caught by sheep, probably due in some way to it being common in disturbed areas such as road reserves. There are 6 Tribulus species recorded in Namibia, present in almost all habitats.