Overview of Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis (A.Kern.) M.P.Nayar & G.S.Giri
Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis, also known as the Oriental caltrop, is a species of plant in the family Zygophyllaceae. This plant is part of the genus Tribulus and is native to Mediterranean regions and western Asia.
Description of Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis (A.Kern.) M.P.Nayar & G.S.Giri
The Oriental caltrop is a low growing annual herb with small yellow flowers. The leaves are fuzzy and grey-green in color, while the stem and branches are thin and hairy. The fruit of the plant is a spiky bur, which contains small oval seeds that are covered in hooked spines. These spines easily cling to animal fur, causing the plant to spread and grow in new areas.
Uses of Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis (A.Kern.) M.P.Nayar & G.S.Giri
Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis has several traditional medicinal uses among different cultures. In Arabic traditional medicine, the roots of this plant were used to treat fevers, while in Greek traditional medicine, it was used as a diuretic. The seeds of the plant are also used as an ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine for its diuretic and blood pressure lowering properties. Additionally, the plant is also used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments, such as urinary disorders and migraines.
Appearance of Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis (A.Kern.) M.P.Nayar & G.S.Giri
Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis is a small herb that grows up to 30cm tall and has thin branches and leaves that are fuzzy and grey-green in color. The flowers of this plant are small and yellow, while the fruit is a spiky bur that contains small oval seeds covered in hooked spines. These spines easily cling to animal fur, and help in the plant's dispersal and germination.
Growth Conditions of Tribulus Lanuginosus L. var. Orientalis (A.Kern.) M.P.Nayar & G.S.Giri
Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis (A.Kern.) M.P.Nayar & G.S.Giri, commonly known as “Bhakhra” or “Gokhru” in Hindi, is a species of plant indigenous to the Indian subcontinent. It is a hardy, annual, prostrate herb that grows well in hot and arid regions. The growth conditions required for this plant are as follows:
Light Requirements
Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis requires full sun or partial shade to grow well. It can tolerate high levels of heat and drought but needs protection from frost. It is best to grow this plant in a region that receives bright sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in temperatures between 15°C to 40°C. However, it can withstand temperature extremes of up to 50°C and can also tolerate temperatures as low as 5°C. As it is a hardy plant, it can endure harsh climatic conditions.
Soil Requirements
The plant needs well-draining, sandy or loamy soils with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 8.0. It can grow in saline or alkaline soils and is tolerant to drought conditions. It grows well in dry and infertile soils and does not require any additional fertilizers or nutrients.
Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis is a plant that can withstand tough growth conditions and can grow in almost any environment. It is a valuable crop for areas where other plants cannot grow due to extreme weather conditions or soil conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis (A.Kern.) M.P.Nayar & G.S.Giri is a hardy plant that can adapt to a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. The plant can be grown from seeds or cuttings.
If you opt to propagate the plant by seeds, sow them in a well-draining potting mix during the spring season. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist. The seeds should germinate within two to three weeks.
Alternatively, you can propagate the plant by cuttings. Take a 5-inch cutting from the parent plant, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix and place it in a bright location. Keep the soil moist until roots develop, which usually takes a few weeks.
Watering Needs
When watering Tribulus lanuginosus, it is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out between watering episodes. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce the frequency during the winter months.
The plant's water requirements may differ depending on the growing conditions. Monitor the amount of water the plant receives and adjust accordingly.
Fertilization
Tribulus lanuginosus is not a heavy feeder and can thrive in poor soils. However, adding fertilizer to the soil can help boost the plant's growth and development. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, once a month during the growing season.
It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying fertilizer to avoid overfeeding the plant. Overfertilization can lead to a salt buildup in the soil, which can damage the plant's roots.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Tribulus lanuginosus, but it can help maintain the plant's shape and encourage bushier growth. Prune the plant in the early spring before new growth emerges.
To prune the plant, use clean and sharp pruning shears to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. You can also trim back any excessive growth to encourage bushier growth.
Keep in mind that Tribulus lanuginosus has spiny stems, so wear gloves and protective clothing when handling the plant.
Propagation of Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis
Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis (A.Kern.) M.P.Nayar & G.S.Giri, commonly known as the woolly fruit puncturevine, is a hardy plant that grows in arid and semi-arid regions. It can be propagated by several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis can be done by seed sowing in the spring season. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the hard seed coat, making it easier for the seedlings to emerge. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and should be kept moist but not waterlogged until germination occurs, which usually takes 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings reach a height of 4-6 inches, they can be transplanted.
Cutting Propagation
Another method of propagation is through cuttings. Take cuttings from the stem tips from a healthy mature plant. Dip the lower end of the cutting in rooting hormone to encourage root growth and insert the cutting into a moist potting mix. Place the pot in a well-lit area but not in direct sunlight. Water the plant daily, and after 3-4 weeks, the cutting will root and produce new growth.
Vegetative Propagation
Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis can also be propagated using vegetative techniques. It can be done by dividing the plant's root system. To do so, carefully remove the plant from the soil and use a clean and sharp knife to divide the root system into two or more sections, making sure each section has enough roots and foliage. Replant the divided sections into a well-draining soil mix. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until new growth appears.
Disease Management
Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis (A.Kern.) M.P.Nayar & G.S.Giri is a hardy plant that is known to be resistant to most diseases. However, there are still a few diseases that can attack the plant. These include:
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant. Symptoms include soft and discolored roots. The best way to manage this disease is to avoid overwatering the plant and making sure that the soil is well-drained.
- Mildew: This disease is caused by a fungus that affects the leaves of the plant. Symptoms include white powdery spots on the leaves. The best way to manage this disease is to prune affected leaves and increase air circulation around the plant.
It is important to monitor your plant for any signs of disease and take appropriate action to prevent further spread.
Pest Management
While Tribulus lanuginosus L. var. orientalis (A.Kern.) M.P.Nayar & G.S.Giri is generally resistant to pests, there are still a few common pests that can attack the plant. These include:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing damage to leaves and stems. The best way to manage this pest is to remove affected leaves and use an insecticidal soap to kill the insects.
- Spider Mites: These tiny mites live on the underside of the plant's leaves and feed on the plant's sap. Symptoms of spider mites include brown or yellow spots on leaves. The best way to manage this pest is to increase humidity around the plant and use an insecticidal soap to kill the mites.
It is important to regularly inspect your plant for any signs of pests and take appropriate action to prevent further damage.
