Meaning of three-cornered jack | Babel Free

Definitions

1. A weed of species Emex australis.
   Australia
2. A seed vessel of this plant, which has three symmetrically arranged thorns and a pointed head.

Examples

“1901, South Australian Department of Agriculture, South Australian Department of Industry, Journal of Agriculture and Industry of South Australia, Volume 4, page 385, The “Three-cornered jack/Devils thorn” (Emex australis) is believed to be poisonous to them, as many dead locusts are found near to each plant.”

“Many chemicals are being tested at Mildura in an attempt to control some of the more difficult weeds such as hard-head thistle (Centaurea repens) and three cornered jack/Devils thorn (Emex australis).”

“There is also the three-cornered jack, which runs along the ground and has somewhat fleshy green leaves. The seed vessels have four spikes like those of the iron caltrops which used to be laid down to cripple the horses of charging cavalry.”

“For example, three-cornered jack or double-gee (Emex australis) infests grain crops and reduces grain yield, and the spiny fruits cause severe contamination of produce such as vine fruits, peas and lupins in storage.”

CEFR level