Overview of Tribulus intermedius Kralik
Tribulus intermedius Kralik, commonly referred to as the Intermediate Gokshura, belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family. It is a perennial herbaceous plant with small leaves, yellow flowers, and fruits with spiny seed capsules. The plant is native to the Mediterranean region, especially in Israel, Jordan, Cyprus, and Turkey.
Common Names of Tribulus intermedius Kralik
Tribulus intermedius Kralik is also known by several common names, including the Intermediate Gokshura, Spiny Tribulus, and Puncturevine.
Uses of Tribulus intermedius Kralik
Tribulus intermedius Kralik has been traditionally used to treat various medical conditions, including urinary infections, sore throats, and headaches. The plant is also used as a natural diuretic, and to increase libido and fertility. Tribulus intermedius is also believed to have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antioxidant properties.
Recent studies have revealed that the plant contains several compounds, including saponins and flavonoids, that exhibit potential neuroprotective, anti-tumor, and anti-diabetic activities. The plant has also been used in some cultures as a food source.
General Appearance of Tribulus intermedius Kralik
Tribulus intermedius Kralik is a small, sprawling perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm in height. The leaves are small, oval, and arranged opposite to each other. The flowers are small, yellow, and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruits of the plant are spiny capsules, which contain several seeds that are covered in sharp spines.
The plant prefers dry, rocky soils, and is commonly found in the Mediterranean region. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate extreme temperatures and low moisture levels.
Growth Conditions for Tribulus Intermedius Kralik
Tribulus intermedius Kralik, also known as Saharan Caltrop, is a herbaceous plant species that can grow up to 60 cm tall and 1 m wide. It is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in harsh desert regions of North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The plant prefers dry and sandy soils with high salinity levels.
Light Requirements
Tribulus intermedius requires full sun exposure to grow at its best. These plants are adapted to hot and dry climates and can tolerate high temperatures up to 50°C. They can also grow in partial shade, but the yield of the plant will decrease if it doesn't receive enough sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Tribulus intermedius grows best in warm temperatures between 25 and 35°C. The plant can survive in arid regions and can tolerate dry and hot winds. However, it is important to protect the plants from frost during the winter months, as they cannot survive freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers dry and sandy soils with good drainage. Tribulus intermedius can tolerate soil with a high concentration of salt, making it well-suited for coastal regions with high salinity. It is crucial to avoid waterlogging the plant. The ideal soil pH range is between 7 and 8.5.
In conclusion, Tribulus intermedius Kralik requires full sun exposure, warm temperatures, dry and sandy soils with good drainage and salinity tolerance. By providing these conditions, the plant can grow and produce its characteristic fruits successfully.
Cultivation methods
Tribulus intermedius Kralik is a hardy plant that can thrive in a range of conditions. It can be grown from seeds or cuttings in well-draining soil. The optimum temperature for seed germination is between 20-25°C. It requires full sunlight exposure and can tolerate hot, dry conditions.
Watering needs
Tribulus intermedius Kralik is adapted to arid climates and is resistant to drought. However, it requires regular watering during the germination and establishment phase. Once established, it can tolerate dry spells. The frequency of watering depends on the weather and the soil type. In general, it is best to water deeply and infrequently to promote deep root growth.
Fertilization
Tribulus intermedius Kralik is well adapted to poor soils and generally does not require fertilization if grown in its natural habitat. However, if grown in a cultivated garden, a balanced fertilizer can be applied sparingly during the growing season. It is important not to over-fertilize as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Tribulus intermedius Kralik does not require much pruning, apart from the removal of dead or damaged branches. However, if desired, it can be shaped through light pruning after flowering is complete. This will encourage bushier growth and may increase the number of flowers in subsequent years.
Propagation of Tribulus intermedius Kralik
Tribulus intermedius Kralik can be propagated through two main methods; seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Tribulus intermedius Kralik can be sown directly into the soil or pots, or they can be started indoors and then transplanted. If direct sowing is preferred, the seeds should be sown into a well-prepared seedbed in autumn or spring, after the last frost. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep the soil moist until germination, which usually takes about two weeks. If starting seeds indoors, they should be sown in trays or pots and kept in a warm, well-lit location. Once the seeds have germinated, they can be transplanted outdoors in early summer.
Propagation by Cuttings
Tribulus intermedius Kralik can also be propagated using stem cuttings taken from healthy plants. The best time to take cuttings is in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a stem that is about 6 inches long, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Insert the cutting into potting soil and keep the soil moist. Place the pot in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight. Roots should emerge after about 4-6 weeks, after which the plant can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Tribulus intermedius Kralik
Tribulus intermedius Kralik is a hardy, low-growing plant that can thrive in various growing conditions. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can affect its growth and development. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Tribulus intermedius Kralik and ways to manage them:
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Tribulus intermedius Kralik is powdery mildew. This fungal disease manifests in the form of white, powdery spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, you can apply fungicides or neem oil to the affected areas.
Another disease that can affect Tribulus intermedius Kralik is root rot. This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi that thrive in damp conditions. To manage root rot, you can improve soil drainage by adding organic matter to the soil and avoiding over-watering.
Pests
Aphids are common pests that can infest Tribulus intermedius Kralik plants. These small insects feed on the plant's sap and can cause stunted growth and leaf curling. To manage aphids, you can use insecticidal soaps or neem oil to repel and kill them.
Spider mites are another pest that can attack Tribulus intermedius Kralik. These tiny pests feed on the plant's leaves and can cause yellowing and webbing. To manage spider mites, you can use a miticide or neem oil to kill them.
Overall, regular monitoring of your Tribulus intermedius Kralik plants and prompt action when you notice any signs of disease or pest infestation can go a long way in keeping your plants healthy and thriving.
