Barleria prionitis, commonly known as Porcupine Flower or Spiny Barleria, is a semi-evergreen shrub native to a range of habitats including dry deciduous forests, thorn scrub, and grasslands across Southeast Asia, China, the Indian Subcontinent, the Arabian Peninsula, and northeastern Africa. It typically grows up to 6 feet tall and is characterized by its much-branched form, spiny leaf axils, and elliptic to ovate leaves. The plant produces showy yellow to orange flowers, which are tubular and bloom in the cooler months, providing a splash of color when many other plants are dormant.

Porcupine Flower is valued for its ornamental flowers and is often used as a hedge plant due to its spiny branches, which can deter intruders. It is also known for its low maintenance requirements, thriving in full sun to part shade and preferring well-drained soils. In traditional medicine, various parts of the plant are used to treat a range of ailments. However, gardeners should be cautious as Barleria prionitis can become invasive outside its native range, and it is advisable to consult local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0