any of several prickly or thorny shrubs, particularly Paliurus spina-christi, of the buckthorn family (Rhamnaceae). P. spina-christi is native to southern Europe and western Asia. It grows about 6 m (20 feet) tall and is sometimes cultivated in hedges. The alternate leaves are oval and finely toothed. The very small, greenish yellow flowers, which grow in small clusters, are followed by brownish yellow, leathery fruit. The sturdy thorns are straight or slightly hooked.