Overview
Tribulus erectus Engl. is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to Zygophyllaceae family. It is widely distributed in Africa, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen. The plant has several local names, such as Puncture vine, Caltrop, Devil's Thorn, and Goat's Head.
Appearance
The plant has an extensive root system that produces a single or branched stem, which usually grows up to 60 cm tall. The leaves of Tribulus erectus are pinnately compound and have linear leaflets with smooth margins. The flowers are small, five-petaled, and have a yellowish-green color that grows in clusters. The fruit produced by the plant is globose and woody with four to six spines that are sharp enough to puncture a car tire and therefore give it the name puncture vine.
Uses
In traditional medicine, Tribulus erectus is used to treat various ailments such as urinary infections, impotence, and digestive problems. The plant has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in wound healing and as a pain reliever. Recent research has also shown that Tribulus erectus extracts have potent antioxidant capacity and exhibit neuroprotective effects.
In some cultures, the fruit and seeds of Tribulus erectus are used as a food supplement and are believed to have aphrodisiac properties. Additionally, the plant is used as a natural remedy to improve physical performance in athletes due to its ability to boost testosterone levels in the body.
Despite its medicinal properties, the sharp spines of the fruit have made the plant a nuisance in some areas, damaging bikes, and affecting livestock movement.
Typical Growth Conditions of Tribulus erectus Engl.
Tribulus erectus Engl. is a small, herbaceous annual plant that is commonly found in subtropical and tropical regions. It is a part of the Zygophyllaceae family and is known for its medicinal properties. This plant has thorny stems and leaves and produces small yellow flowers.
Light Requirements
Tribulus erectus requires plenty of sunlight to grow properly. It typically thrives in areas with full sunlight exposure and can also tolerate partial shade. The plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow optimally. When grown indoors, it is essential to place this plant near a window that receives strong sunlight to promote healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the growth of Tribulus erectus ranges from 20 to 32°C. This plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers warm weather. The plant does not tolerate frost or extremely low temperatures and may die in such conditions. If the temperature drops below 10°C, it is recommended to bring the plant indoors or cover it to protect it from the cold.
Soil Requirements
Tribulus erectus requires well-draining soil with a pH ranging from neutral (6.6-7.3) to slightly alkaline (7.4-7.9). It is also best to use sandy, loamy soils rich in nutrients. The plant thrives in soils that are moderately fertile and well-draining. It is recommended to mix the soil with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to increase its fertility and nutrient content.
Overall, the growth of Tribulus erectus can be significantly influenced by the surrounding environmental conditions. Hence, it is essential to ensure that the plant is provided with the necessary growth conditions for optimal growth and development.
Cultivation of Tribulus erectus Engl.
Tribulus erectus Engl. is native to Africa and is grown in arid and semiarid regions. It requires warm weather and plenty of sunlight; therefore, the plant must be planted in open areas or a greenhouse that gets plenty of light. The soil in which the plant is grown must be well-drained and sandy. It is best to avoid clayey or poorly draining soil.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering Tribulus erectus Engl., the plant must be kept moist, but not overly watered. The plant must be irrigated immediately after planting and then kept damp throughout its growing period. Less watering is required during the winter months. Over-watering can lead to root rot, which can damage the plant's overall health.
Fertilization
Tribulus erectus Engl. grows well in sandy, well-drained soil, which usually doesn't require additional fertilization. In case the soil is poor or lacks nutrients, adding a slow-release fertilizer is recommended. The ideal balance of nutrients would be equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. However, a high nitrogen concentration can lead to leafy growth, which is not desirable for this plant.
Pruning
The pruning of Tribulus erectus Engl. should be carried out to remove any dead or damaged growth and promote air circulation. It's usually necessary to prune out the old or dead limbs, which can be done during the growing season. Pruning the plant while it's still young can help it establish a good kink, and it can encourage higher-quality growth.
Propagation of Tribulus erectus Engl.
Tribulus erectus Engl., commonly known as puncture vine or caltrop, is a species of flowering plant in the family Zygophyllaceae. It is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that grows well in sandy or rocky soil. It is a popular plant for Mediterranean gardens because of its attractive flowers and foliage.
There are two primary methods of propagating Tribulus erectus Engl.: by seed and by cuttings.
Propagation by seed
The easiest way to propagate Tribulus erectus Engl. is by seed. The seeds germinate quickly, usually within two weeks of planting. Here are the steps to follow:
- Collect ripe seeds from the plant.
- Clean the seeds to remove any debris or dead plant material.
- Plant the seeds in well-draining soil, either in pots or directly in the ground.
- Water the seeds well and keep the soil moist until they begin to sprout.
- Transplant the seedlings once they are large enough to handle.
Propagation by cuttings
Another way to propagate Tribulus erectus Engl. is by cuttings. Here are the steps to follow:
- Select a healthy stem from the plant and cut off a section about 10-15 cm long.
- Strip off the leaves from the lower half of the stem.
- Dip the end of the stem in rooting hormone.
- Plant the stem in well-draining soil and water it well.
- Keep the soil moist and protect the cutting from direct sunlight until it begins to form roots.
- Transplant the cutting once it has formed a good root system.
With either propagation method, it is important to plant the new plants in well-draining soil and to keep the soil moist until they become established. Tribulus erectus Engl. is a hardy and fast-growing plant, so it should not take long for new plants to become established.
Disease Management
Tribulus erectus Engl. is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to diseases. However, fungal infections may occur in humid conditions, which can impact the plant's growth and development. Gray mold, powdery mildew, and leaf spot are three common fungal diseases that may affect Tribulus erectus.
Gray mold is caused by Botrytis cinerea and usually affects the stems and flowers of the plant. It will result in wilting, browning, and eventually death of the affected part. The best way to manage this disease is to remove the infected parts carefully and avoid watering the leaves and flowers. Using a fungicide spray may be necessary, but it's best to prevent the disease by providing good air circulation around the plant and keeping it dry.
Powdery mildew is caused by Erysiphe cichoracearum. It is a white powdery fungus that covers the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant, causing them to curl and distort. To manage this disease, remove the affected parts, keep the plant dry, and provide ample space for air circulation. Fungicide application can control the spread of powdery mildew.
Leaf spot is a fungal disease caused by Phoma spp. that appears as brown spots on the leaves, eventually causing them to drop. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected parts, and dispose of them carefully. Implement crop rotation measures and avoid overcrowding of plants, which can promote disease spread. Fungicide spray may be necessary.
Pest Management
Tribulus erectus may also be susceptible to attacks from insects, especially when grown in proximity with other plants. Common insects that may affect Tribulus erectus include aphids, spider mites, and thrips, which feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant.
Aphids are small pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing stunted growth and deformations. To manage aphids, use a strong jet of water to wash them off and remove any damaged leaves. Insecticidal soap spray on the leaves can also keep aphids under control.
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that suck the sap from the foliage and create stippling damage. They are prevalent in dry conditions and can quickly infest the plant, causing significant damage. To manage spider mites, create a humid environment around the plant by misting the leaves, or use a systemic insecticide to control the pests.
Thrips are tiny insects that cause scarring on the leaves and flowers of the plant. They are more active in the warmer months and thrive in dry conditions. To manage thrips, remove the infected parts and maintain good airflow around the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to control thrips infestations effectively.
