ClimateAugust 23, 2026

boxthorn

BOX-thorn

Definition

A spiny, invasive shrub that grows aggressively in disturbed environments and is often considered a weed.

Etymology

The word is a compound of 'box' (referring to the plant's firm, hard wood) and 'thorn,' tracing back to Old English. It has been used historically to describe various prickly shrubs in the genus Lycium.

In the news

The article mentions boxthorn as an invasive species that cluttered the Gawler River, highlighting the historical neglect the new project aims to reverse.

Massive new Northern Park Lands project breaks ground with 13,500 trees planned

Read the full article ↗

Glam Adelaide

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