At first glance, Eryngo looks as if it should be classified with the thistles in the Asteraceae (also known as Compositae) Family, but it is really a member of the Apiaceae (also known as Umbelliferae) (Parsley and Carrot) Family.
Eryngo's multi-lobed purple leaves vaguely resemble the leaves of Agarita. The leaves are stiff with very sharp spines at the tip and lining the edges. As with Agarita, a thick pair of gloves are highly recommended when handling the plant.
The cylindrical flower heads are tight clusters of small purple flowers. Most of the plant is purple. The blue "fibers" protruding from the flowers are the flowers' anthers:
This set of photos was taken on the Mission Reach of the San Antonio River on the east bank not very far south of the S.E. Military Dr bridge on Friday, August 23, 2013.
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