About Scorpiurus muricatus L.
Scorpiurus muricatus, commonly known as the caterpillar-plant or prickly scorpion's-tail, is an annual leguminous plant. It is native to southern Europe and the region of Syria. It bears tiny pea-like flowers and simple leaves, a trait that is uncharacteristic for legumes. Its contorted, hairy pods are the source of its common name "prickly caterpillar". Extracts of this species have been found to produce allelopathic effects on microbes in the Fusarium genus, because the plant's tissues contain a high concentration of phytoalexins. This species is primarily grown as a garden plant used for groundcover. In some Mediterranean countries, its densely haired pods may be added to salads for visual/textural interest, and its leaves are eaten as a salad herb.
