Beggar's-lice meaning

Beggar's-lice refers to small, sticky seeds that cling to clothing or fur, aptly named for their resemblance to lice.


Beggar's-lice definitions

Word backwards ecil-s'raggeb
Part of speech The word "beggar's-lice" is a noun.
Syllabic division beg-gar's-lice
Plural The plural of the word beggar's-lice is beggar's-lice.
Total letters 11
Vogais (3) e,a,i
Consonants (6) b,g,r,s,l,c

When walking through fields or along trails, you may have encountered beggar's-lice, a plant that produces tiny seeds with hooked bristles that cling to clothing or animal fur. These seeds are a common annoyance for outdoor enthusiasts, as they can be difficult to remove once attached.

Characteristics of Beggar's-Lice

Beggar's-lice, also known as stickseed, belong to the genus Heliathus and produce small white or yellow flowers that bloom in the summer months. The plant itself can grow up to three feet tall and has leaves that are rough to the touch. However, it is the seeds of beggar's-lice that are the most recognizable feature of this plant.

Seed Dispersal

The seeds of beggar's-lice have adapted to easily attach themselves to passing animals or humans in order to spread to new locations. This method of dispersal is effective, but can be a nuisance for those who unwittingly collect these hitchhiking seeds on their clothing or in their hair.

Removal and Control

Removing beggar's-lice seeds can be a challenge, as their hooked bristles make them cling tenaciously to fabric or hair. Methods for removal include carefully picking them off one by one or using a comb to loosen them from clothing or pet fur. In agricultural settings, herbicides can be used to control beggar's-lice populations.

Beggar's-lice is a common sight in fields, along roadsides, and in other disturbed areas. While their seeds may be a nuisance, these plants play a role in their ecosystem by providing food and habitat for local wildlife. Remember to check your clothing after spending time outdoors to avoid bringing these pesky seeds home with you.

In conclusion, beggar's-lice is a plant with interesting adaptations for seed dispersal that can be a bother to those who come into contact with them. By understanding their characteristics and methods for removal, you can navigate outdoor spaces without bringing home unwanted hitchhikers.


Beggar's-lice Examples

  1. I picked beggar's-lice off my clothes after hiking through the woods.
  2. The beggar's-lice plant spread quickly in my garden.
  3. As I walked by the creek, I felt the beggar's-lice sticking to my shoes.
  4. The beggar's-lice seeds clung to my dog's fur after our walk in the park.
  5. I had to carefully remove the beggar's-lice from my hair after playing in the tall grass.
  6. The beggar's-lice plant is known for its tiny burrs that attach to clothing.
  7. I found beggar's-lice stuck to my socks after walking through the meadow.
  8. The beggar's-lice seeds dispersed easily in the wind.
  9. I avoided sitting on the beggar's-lice-infested bench in the park.
  10. The beggar's-lice plant can be a nuisance in gardens and fields.


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  • Updated 21/04/2024 - 00:23:29