Cenchrus echinatus is an annual grasslike herb that is not native to California.
There is a high risk of this plant becoming invasive in California according to Cal-IPC.
[Cal-IPC] Invasive Watch List: Cenchrus echinatus (southern sandbur) is an annual grass (family Poaceae) that can grow up to 30 inches tall and is found in the San Francisco Bay area and the south coast and desert ranges of California. It is native to the southern United States, Mexico, Central America and South America. It favors grasslands and dunes. It spreads via seeds which can attach to clothing or animals and can be carried by wind or water.
Cal-IPC Rating: Watch (link added by Mary Ann Machi)
Calflora:
Information on California plants for education, research and conservation,
with data contributed by
public and private institutions and individuals.
[web application]. 2025.The Calflora Database
[a non-profit organization].Available:
https://www.calflora.org/(Accessed: 03/28/2025).
one or more occurrences