Origin
Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis (Ehrenb. ex Schweinf.) Zohary, also known as the hairy-fruited caltrop, is a plant species that is part of the Zygophyllaceae family. It is native to East Africa, particularly in Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Common Names
Aside from hairy-fruited caltrop, Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis is known by several other common names, including puncture vine, goat's head, and devil's thorn. These names refer to the plant's fruits, which have sharp spines that can puncture the skin and cause pain when stepped on.
Uses
In traditional medicine, various parts of Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis are used for their medicinal properties. The leaves are believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, while the roots are used to treat respiratory and digestive disorders. The fruit, although rarely consumed, is also used for its purported health benefits, such as its ability to improve sexual dysfunction and boost the immune system.
The plant is also used for soil stabilization and as a natural barrier to prevent soil erosion. Additionally, it is a source of food for some animal species like goats.
General Appearance
Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis is a sprawling herbaceous plant with hairy leaves that are pinnately compound, meaning they have multiple leaflets arranged along either side of a central stem. The plant has yellow flowers that are about 2 cm in diameter and have five petals. Its fruit is a woody bur with four sharp spines that can reach up to 5 cm long. The plant typically grows up to 50 cm tall and has a spread of up to 2 meters.
Light Requirements
Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis requires a lot of sunlight for optimal growth. It is an arid plant species that thrives in hot and dry conditions. Direct sunlight exposure of the plant for at least 6 hours a day would be optimal for its development. While the plant can thrive in partially shaded areas, any form of shade should be avoided as it can affect its growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and can grow well even in high air temperatures. However, the optimum temperature for its growth should be around 20°C - 32°C. The species can survive moderate frosts and occasional drying periods, but extended cold periods and water-saturated soils can be detrimental to the plant's health. During the winter, it is recommended to provide some form of protection for the plant to limit frost damage.
Soil Requirements
Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis prefers well-drained and sandy soils. The plant can tolerate clay soils but not waterlogged ones. The pH level of the soil should be 5.5 - 7.7. In terms of nutrient requirements, the plant can survive in poor soil conditions but would benefit significantly with the addition of compost or organic matter. The plant grows well in areas with low or minimal rainfall, and excessive watering should be avoided.
Cultivation Methods:
Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis can be cultivated from either seeds or cuttings. If starting from seeds, plant them in well draining soil and keep moist until germination. Cuttings can be taken in late spring or early summer and should be rooted in a mixture of sand and perlite under controlled moisture conditions.
Watering Needs:
Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis requires moderate watering, but make sure not to over water as this can lead to root rot. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and avoid getting water on the leaves to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Fertilization:
It is recommended to fertilize Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis every 2-3 months during the growing season (spring to fall) to support healthy growth. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, or a fertilizer formulated specifically for flowering plants.
Pruning:
Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis does not require much pruning, but you may want to remove dead or diseased branches to maintain a healthy plant. Prune after the flowering period and avoid cutting into old wood as this can reduce the plant's ability to produce blooms in the following season.
Propagation of Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis (Ehrenb. ex Schweinf.) Zohary
Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis (Ehrenb. ex Schweinf.) Zohary can be propagated using several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis (Ehrenb. ex Schweinf.) Zohary is through seed propagation. The seeds require scarification or stratification before planting them to ensure successful germination.
Scarification is done by either nicking the seed coat with a blade or rubbing the seeds with sandpaper to break through the hard outer layer. After scarification, the seeds can be sown in well-draining soil 1 to 2 cm deep.
Stratification involves placing the seeds in a moist, cool environment for several weeks before sowing. This method imitates the natural process of stratification that occurs during winter dormancy. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in the same manner as the scarified seeds.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another option for propagating Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis (Ehrenb. ex Schweinf.) Zohary. Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken during the growing season and treated with rooting hormone before planting them in moist soil. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment until they develop roots.
Division Propagation
Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis (Ehrenb. ex Schweinf.) Zohary can also be propagated by dividing the plant. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its own roots and shoots. The divisions can be replanted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they establish new roots.
Disease Management for Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis
Like all plants, Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis is susceptible to various diseases caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Here are some common diseases that may affect the plant:
- Leaf spots: These are circular or angular spots that appear on the leaves. They are caused by fungi that thrive in warm and humid conditions. To manage this disease, remove any infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, spray the plant with a solution of baking soda and water or a fungicide.
- Root rot: This disease occurs due to overwatering or poorly drained soil. It causes the roots to rot, and the plant may wilt and eventually die. To manage this disease, improve drainage and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management for Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis
Several pests can affect Tribulus longipetalus Viv. var. mollis, leading to reduced growth and yield. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant:
- Aphids: These are small insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and look deformed. To manage this pest, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that cause yellowing of leaves and the development of a webbing. To manage this pest, spray the plant with a solution of water and a few drops of dish soap.
- Caterpillars: These insects eat the leaves, causing defoliation and reduced growth. To manage this pest, handpick the caterpillars and spray the plant with a natural pesticide.
