Overview
Tribulus inermis Engl. is a species of flowering plant in the family Zygophyllaceae. It is native to tropical Africa but has been introduced to other parts of the world.
Common Names
Tribulus inermis Engl. is commonly known as the Barbados nutsedge, puncturevine, devil's thorn, and goat head.
Appearance
Tribulus inermis Engl. grows as a sprawling, mat-forming perennial herb with stems up to 1 meter long. Its leaves are pinnately compound, with leaflets that are often spiny. The plant produces small yellow flowers that give way to distinctive burrs with sharp, rigid spines that can cause injury to animals and humans.
Uses
In traditional medicine, various parts of Tribulus inermis Engl. have been used to treat different ailments such as urinary tract infections, fever, and as a diuretic. The roots have been used to treat asthma and the leaves and seeds for high blood pressure. In some cultures, Tribulus inermis Engl. is also used as an aphrodisiac.
Tribulus inermis Engl. has also been found to have potential as an ornamental crop.
Tribulus inermis Engl. is considered a noxious weed in some parts of the world, including the United States. Its sharp burrs can cause injuries to animals and reduce the value of animal products such as wool and hides.
Growth Conditions of Tribulus inermis Engl.
Tribulus inermis Engl., also known as wadi al gehannam, belongs to the family Zygophyllaceae and is native to Arabia, North Africa, and western Asia. The plant typically grows in arid and semi-arid regions, where it is well adapted to tolerate harsh environmental conditions.
Light Requirements
Tribulus inermis grows best under full sun exposure. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Insufficient light may result in stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Tribulus inermis can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 4°C to 45°C. However, the optimal temperature for growth and development is between 20°C and 35°C. Temperatures below 4°C or above 45°C may cause damage to the plant or even kill it.
Soil Requirements
Tribulus inermis prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.0. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including poor soils, but it thrives best in sandy loam soils. The plant has a deep root system that allows it to access water and nutrients from the soil, making it resistant to drought conditions.
It is important to note that excessive soil moisture can be detrimental to the growth of Tribulus inermis. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid overwatering and to plant the species in well-drained soils.
Nutrient Requirements
Tribulus inermis is not a heavy feeder. It can grow in nutrient-poor soils, but it responds positively to fertilization. The plant requires adequate levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for optimal growth. It is recommended to fertilize the plant once every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring and summer).
Overall, Tribulus inermis is a hardy plant that can grow under various environmental conditions. However, to achieve optimal growth and development, it is essential to provide the plant with suitable light, temperature, soil, and nutrient conditions.
Cultivation methods for Tribulus inermis Engl.
When cultivating Tribulus inermis Engl., it's important to choose a well-draining soil that's nutrient-rich. The plant prefers full sun and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to loamy, but prefers neutral to alkaline soil. Before planting the seeds, ensure that the soil is well-drained and free of any debris or rocks that could impede the plant's growth.
Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and space them about 6-8 inches apart. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged during the germination period, which typically takes two to three weeks. Once the plant has started to grow, gradually reduce the amount of water as the soil dries out.
Watering needs for Tribulus inermis Engl.
Tribulus inermis Engl. plants should be watered regularly, but the soil should not be consistently saturated. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. It is important to water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. During the hot, dry summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization for Tribulus inermis Engl.
Fertilizing Tribulus inermis Engl. plants can help promote their growth and overall health. It is recommended to use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to avoid damaging the roots. The plant should be fertilized about once a month during the growing season, from early spring to late summer.
The fertilizer should be applied to the area around the plant, not directly on the plant itself. Be sure to follow the package instructions on how much fertilizer to use and how often to apply it.
Pruning for Tribulus inermis Engl.
Pruning is not essential for the growth and survival of Tribulus inermis Engl., but it can help promote a fuller, bushier plant. Pruning involves removing the dead, damaged, or weak areas of the plant. It can also be used to control the plant's size and shape.
Pruning should be done in the early spring before the plant's active growth period starts. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to make clean cuts and avoid tearing the plant's tissue. Avoid over-pruning as this can damage the plant and reduce its overall health and vigor.
Propagation of Tribulus inermis Engl.
Tribulus inermis Engl. is a hardy plant that can be propagated easily through seeds or cuttings.
Propagation from Seeds
Propagation from seeds is the most common method used to propagate Tribulus inermis Engl. The seeds can be collected directly from the plant when they are mature and have turned brown. The seeds need to be sown in well-draining soil in a sunny location. The soil needs to be moist, but not wet, until the seeds germinate.
The germination time of the seeds varies from 7 to 21 days. Once the seedlings have emerged, they need to be watered regularly and kept in a sunny location. The seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location once they are about 3 to 4 inches tall and have developed strong roots.
Propagation from Cuttings
Propagation from cuttings is another method that can be used to propagate Tribulus inermis Engl. Cuttings should be taken in the spring when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches long and should be taken from the tips of the plant.
The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone powder and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil needs to be kept moist, but not wet, until the cuttings have rooted. The cuttings can be transplanted to their permanent location once they have developed strong roots.
Both these propagation methods are easy and effective in propagating Tribulus inermis Engl.
Disease and Pest Management for Tribulus inermis Engl.
Tribulus inermis Engl., or puncturevine, is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that grows well in arid regions. However, like any plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests. Here are some common problems that may affect Tribulus inermis, along with suggestions for managing them.
Diseases
Fungal infections: Tribulus inermis can be affected by a range of fungal diseases, including Anthracnose, Fusarium wilt, and Rhizoctonia root rot. These diseases can cause yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth of the plants. To manage fungal infections, remove any affected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Avoid overwatering, and ensure good drainage. Use fungicides if necessary.
Bacterial infections: Bacterial leaf spot and crown gall are two common bacterial infections that can affect Tribulus inermis. Symptoms include spots on the leaves and stems, and swollen, distorted roots. To prevent bacterial infections, avoid plant overcrowding and excessive watering. Remove any infected plant material and apply copper-based fungicides.
Viral infections: Yellowing and stunted growth are symptoms of viral infections. Control measures include using virus-resistant cultivars and maintaining proper sanitation practices.
Pests
Aphids: These tiny insects can cause leaf curling and yellowing and may transmit diseases. Control measures include using insecticidal soaps or oils, removing weeds and debris that can harbor aphids, and introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.
Spider mites: These pests suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and eventually browning of leaves. To control spider mites, increase humidity around the plants and use insecticidal soaps or miticides.
Root-knot nematodes: These microscopic worms cause galls to form on the roots, leading to stunted growth and poor yields. Control measures include using nematode-resistant cultivars, applying soil fumigants, and practicing crop rotation.
By following these management practices, you can help ensure the health and productivity of your Tribulus inermis plants, keeping them free from diseases and pests.
