Crossword Genius

Sticky plant caught on pupils not expected back (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

cleavers

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'sticky plant' is the definition.
'cleavers' can be an answer for 'plant' (cleavers is a kind of plant). I'm not sure about the 'sticky' bit.

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for cleavers that I've seen before include "Chopper's" , "goosegrass" , "crackers!" , "Heavy tools to chop meat" , "Butchers' tools" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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