Field Guide
Caribbean Caltrop
Kallstroemia Pubescens
Caribbean Caltrop
Kallstroemia Pubescens
Caribbean caltrop (Kallstroemia pubescens) is a low-growing annual plant in the caltrop family, native to tropical regions of the Americas. It is commonly found across Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and parts of northern South America, where it thrives in dry, disturbed areas such as roadsides, open fields, and sandy soils.

The plant resembles puncturevine (Tribulus terrestris) in appearance, with small, simple flowers and spreading stems close to the ground. It is best known for its hard, burr-like fruits that break apart into several sharp, spiny segments, each containing a single seed. These spiny nutlets readily stick into skin, clothing, or animal feet, helping the plant spread. In some areas, Caribbean caltrop is used in traditional medicine, although its specific uses vary by region.


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