A rambling stoloniferous, perennial herb that binds soils and therefore useful for erosion control. It is also able to tolerate extended dry conditions but thrives with regular moisture.
This is a widespread plant although it is most common along the Whites Beach rear dune area at Torquay where it has been used in revegetation work to encourage people to keep to tracks (see plate 4). Its large distribution is due in no small way to the mature flower structures ability to form ingenious burrs that cling to almost anything passing by; needless to say its design is the original Velcro system!

The foliage is dark green with ovate pinnate leaves. Globular greenish flower heads appear in spring and summer with reddish fruits forming in early summer. The stoloniferous nature of this plant allows it to cover large areas.

Indigenous uses as provided by the Wathaurung Aboriginal Corporation: A special plant. Not liked by the hiker as the the seeds tend to stick to socks and shoe laces. The green seeds (burr) and young leaves are made into a medicinal tea.