Thornbush (Paliurus spina-christi)

Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)

The spina-christi (Paliurus spina-christi) is a plant that belongs to the Rhamnaceae family. It is also often referred to by other names such as samphire, rock samphire, sea fennel or sea fennel. It is a shrub that can grow up to five metres tall and is characterised by its long branches with spines and its shiny, green, heart-shaped leaves. Its flowers are small and yellow and its fruits are wing-shaped, which allows them to be spread by the wind.

Chrysostom is a plant that has adapted to grow in a variety of environments and is found in the Mediterranean region, especially in Croatia, Greece, Turkey and Israel. It is drought resistant and, thanks to its root system, is able to survive even in poor soils. Its presence in the landscape can thus help to prevent soil erosion. Various bird species feed on the fruit of the thorn tree, which contributes to its spread. It is also often used as a hedge because of its spiny branches. It has traditionally been used as a medicinal plant, its bark and leaves containing various substances that can have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. However, the christ's thorn is also considered an invasive plant species that can negatively affect the native flora.