Heavy metal pollution poses a global environmental challenge, with lead (Pb) being particularly concerning due to its persistence and toxicity. This study investigated Xanthium strumarium L. from China’s Yellow River Sanmenxia section through hydroponic experiments (0–600 mg/L Pb²⁺, 1–11 d exposure) to elucidate its Pb²⁺ response mechanisms. Integrated analyses (EDX, FTIR, thermogravimetry, hyperspectral imaging) revealed a three-phase sequestration strategy: the roots immobilized 88.55% of Pb through pectin carboxyl de-esterification and lignin–Pb complexation, while the stems and leaves retained <11.14% and <0.31%, respectively. A critical threshold (300 mg/L) triggered nonlinear Pb accumulation escalation. Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated enhanced cell wall stability under Pb stress (66.7% residual carbon increase at 600 mg/L). Hyperspectral features (1670 nm band intensity) effectively tracked physiological stress dynamics. The findings establish X. strumarium’s superior suitability for root-based immobilization rather than phytoextraction in Pb-contaminated sites, with its low translocation efficiency minimizing ecological risks. The identified concentration threshold and spectral biomarkers provide multi-scale insights for optimizing in situ phytostabilization strategies, advancing both theoretical understandings and practical applications in heavy metal remediation.

Desertified soils severely limit vegetation restoration and sustainable land use in arid regions. This study aims to evaluate the individual and combined effects of coal-based charcoal produced by coal pyrolysis and organic fertilizer on soil properties and the growth performance of Amorpha fruticosa L. A pot experiment was conducted using degraded sandy soil collected from Inner Mongolia, with amendment rates of 2.5%, 5%, and 10% (w/w) for each material, and a combined treatment (2.5% coal-based charcoal + 2.5% organic fertilizer). The results showed that all treatments reduced soil bulk density (BD) and increased electrical conductivity and nutrient availability. Application of coal-based charcoal increased soil pH, whereas organic fertilizer decreased it, and their combined application resulted in a more balanced soil pH. The combined treatment (FT) achieved the highest germination rate (83.33%), significantly improved root morphological traits, enhanced chlorophyll content and the photosynthetic rate, and increased peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities, while reducing malondialdehyde content. These findings suggest that combining coal-based charcoal with organic fertilizer provides complementary benefits, enhancing soil physicochemical properties and plant physiological performance, thereby promoting the growth of A. fruticosa L. and providing an effective strategy for restoring desertified soils.