Origin and Common Names
Tribulus macranthus Hassk., also known as Puncture Vine or the Big Caltrop, belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family. It is a perennial plant mainly found in West Africa, particularly in Nigeria, Benin, and Ghana. It grows on savannahs, in grasslands, and rocky areas.
Appearance
The plant grows up to four feet tall, with zigzag stems, and is adorned with pinnately compound leaves with 5-8 pairs of leaflets. Its flowers are yellow and small, with five petals. The fruit is a woody burr covered in sharp spines that resemble the common caltrop's shape. Each burr contains 3-4 seeds.
Uses
Tribulus macranthus Hassk. has been used for medicinal purposes, particularly in traditional African medicine. It is believed to have aphrodisiac properties, especially for men with erectile dysfunction. The plant contains protodioscin, a compound that increases testosterone levels in men. It is also used to treat hypertension, cancer, and other illnesses. Additionally, the burrs of the plant have been used as a natural pesticide for storing grains by farmers, protecting them from pests and insects.
Light Requirements
Tribulus macranthus Hassk. requires full sunlight exposure to grow and thrive properly. As a result, it is best to plant it in an area where it can receive direct sunlight for most parts of the day. Insufficient light can cause slow growth and weak stems, affecting overall development and production of flowers. If possible, avoid planting in shaded areas or beneath large trees.
Temperature Requirements
The plant flourishes in warm temperatures and cannot withstand frost. The ideal temperature range for growing Tribulus macranthus Hassk. is between 20°C to 30°C. It can tolerate higher temperatures but may require additional watering if the temperature rises significantly. It is recommended to plant it at the beginning of the rainy season, to ensure the soil retains enough moisture to sustain the plant during the hot months.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Tribulus macranthus Hassk. should be well-drained and rich in organic matter, with a pH between 6.5 to 7.5. The plant prefers sandy soil, but it can also grow in loamy or clayey soils. Make sure the soil is not too compact, as this can prevent proper root growth. Adequate soil fertility is essential, and you can add compost or manure to improve soil quality before planting. Avoid planting in waterlogged or poorly drained soils, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation of Tribulus macranthus Hassk.
Tribulus macranthus Hassk. thrives well in tropical and subtropical climates. It grows well under full sunlight to partial shade. When cultivating this plant, it is advisable to plant the seeds directly in the soil as they do not transplant easily. However, if starting with seedlings, ensure that they are transplanted when they are young.
Watering Needs
Tribulus macranthus Hassk. requires moderate watering. Ensure that the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. During the dry season, it is advisable to water the plant more frequently to maintain the moisture levels in the soil. However, avoid overwatering as it can lead to yellowing of the leaves and poor growth of the plant.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for optimal growth and development of Tribulus macranthus Hassk. Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, which should be done at least once a month. During the dormant season, reduce the amount of fertilizer or avoid fertilizing altogether. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can cause damage to the roots and lead to stunted growth.
Pruning
Pruning of Tribulus macranthus Hassk. should be done during the growing season to encourage bushy growth and promote air circulation. Remove any dead or diseased branches using sharp and sterile pruning shears. Also, remove any suckers that may emerge from the base of the plant to maintain its shape. Avoid pruning during the dormant season as this can cause damage to the plant.
Propagation of Tribulus macranthus Hassk.
Tribulus macranthus Hassk., commonly known as "Zar-maachete" or "Burra gokhru" is a medicinal plant that belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family. Its propagation can be carried out in several ways as described below:
Seed propagation
Seeds can be collected from mature, ripe fruits and sown in the greenhouse or outdoor nursery. The seeds should be cleaned, soaked in water, and sown in a well-drained medium at a depth of 1-2 cm. Germination will take place within 2-3 weeks and the seedlings can be transplanted after 6-8 weeks of growth.
Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from healthy, disease-free stem tips of the plant. The cuttings should be at least 10 cm long and taken with a sharp, sterile blade. The leaves at the bottom of the cutting should be removed and the cutting should be placed in a rooting hormone before inserting it into a well-drained potting mix. The cutting should be kept in a warm, humid environment until rooting occurs. The rooted cutting can then be transplanted into the field.
Division
The plant can also be propagated through division. This involves digging up the fully grown plant and dividing it into several sections. Each section should have several leaves and a healthy root system. The sections can then be transplanted into their desired location.
Disease Management
One of the common diseases that affect Tribulus macranthus Hassk. is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing a white or grey powdery substance on the surface. To manage this disease, it is essential to ensure that the plant is well-ventilated and not overwatered. In severe cases, it might be necessary to use fungicide treatments. It is also essential to remove infected parts of the plant and dispose of them appropriately to prevent the spread of the disease.
Fusarium wilt is another disease that affects Tribulus macranthus Hassk. This fungal disease causes wilting and yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth, and eventual death of the plant. It is essential to practice crop rotation to prevent the build-up of the fungus in the soil. Infected plants should be removed immediately and disposed of to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicide treatments might also help to manage the disease, although they are not always effective.
Pest Management
The main pests that affect Tribulus macranthus Hassk. are aphids. These insects suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and curl. They also excrete a sticky substance that attracts other insects and promotes the growth of sooty mold. One way to manage this pest is to introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings. Insecticidal soaps or neem oil might also help to control the infestation. It is essential to inspect the plant regularly and remove any infected parts to prevent further damage.
Spider mites are also common pests that affect Tribulus macranthus Hassk. These tiny insects feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. To manage this pest, it is essential to maintain the plant's humidity level by misting it with water regularly. Insecticidal soaps or neem oil might also help to manage the infestation. Infected parts of the plant should be removed and disposed of appropriately to prevent further spread of the pest.
