'spiky-leaved' originates from the combination of 'spiky,' meaning 'having sharp points,' and 'leaved,' referring to the presence of leaves.

The term 'spiky' evolved from the word 'spike,' which has been used in English since the 14th century to describe a pointed object. 'Leaved' is derived from the Old English 'lēaf,' meaning 'leaf.'

Initially, 'spiky' referred to any sharp-pointed object, but in combination with 'leaved,' it specifically describes plants with pointed leaves.