Bristlewort

/ˈbrɪsəlwɜrt/ noun

Definition

A plant with bristly or spine-like leaves or stems, or a type of plant characterized by stiff hair-like growths.

Etymology

From bristle + -wort (Old English wyrt, meaning plant or herb). A botanical term for plants with prominent bristly features.

Kelly Says

Many bristlewort plants evolved their stiff hairs as a defense against being eaten by animals, and some insects have evolved thick armor to bite through these defenses.

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