noun (n)

• a small sharp-pointed tip resembling a spike on a stem or leaf(noun.plant)

  Synonym:
  pricker, prickle, spine, sticker, thorn
  

  source: wordnet30
• A small or secondary spike; especially, one of the ultimate parts of the in florescence of grasses. See Illust. of Quaking grass.(noun)

  source: webster1913