Origin
Tribulus macropterus Boiss. is a plant species that belongs to the family Zygophyllaceae and is native to the Mediterranean region, Iran, and Central Asia. It is widely distributed in sandy and stony areas, and can grow in semi-arid conditions.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as giant caltrop, puncture vine, and goat's head in English. Other names include "Bai Ji Li" in Chinese, "Gokhru" in Hindi, and "Ramachikka" in Tamil.
Uses
Various parts of Tribulus macropterus Boiss. have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as urinary disorders, sexual dysfunction, hypertension, and kidney stones. The plant has also been found to have antibacterial and antifungal properties.
In addition to its medicinal uses, the plant has some culinary applications. The seeds of the plant are used to make a traditional Turkish candy called "Akide ?ekeri" and are also used to flavor tea.
General Appearance
Tribulus macropterus Boiss. is a herbaceous plant that can grow up to 2m tall. It has a woody stem and the leaves are pinnately compound, with 4-8 pairs of leaflets. The plant produces yellow flowers with five petals and five sepals, and the fruits are woody capsules that contain numerous sharp-pointed spines. The seeds within the capsules have hooks that attach to animals and help the plant to spread its seeds.
Light Requirements
The plant Tribulus macropterus Boiss. prefers full sunlight to grow and thrive. It can tolerate partial shade, but the growth rate might be slow. Therefore, it is recommended to grow the plant in a place where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. In indoor conditions, artificial light sources like grow lamps can be used to provide the necessary amount of light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Tribulus macropterus Boiss. can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers warm to hot temperatures. The optimum temperature range for its growth is between 20°C-30°C. The plant can tolerate higher temperatures up to 40°C, but it requires frequent watering to prevent dehydration. The plant goes dormant during the winter season, and it's essential to reduce watering during that time to prevent root rot.
Soil Requirements
The plant Tribulus macropterus Boiss. requires well-draining soil to grow. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it prefers sandy loam or loamy soil. The soil's pH range should be between 6.0-7.5, and it should be rich in organic matter. It's recommended to mix compost or manure into the soil before planting to improve soil fertility and nutrient uptake. Additionally, the plant can tolerate moderate drought but requires consistent and regular watering for optimal growth.
Cultivation methods
Tribulus macropterus Boiss., commonly known as big winged puncturevine, is an herbaceous perennial plant that grows well in sandy soils and in areas with hot and dry climates. It is usually propagated through seeds, which can be sown directly into the soil in early spring when the temperature is above 18 °C. The seeds should be placed at a depth of 1-2 cm with a spacing of 15-20 cm between each plant. The plants require full sun exposure and can grow up to 30 cm in height.
Watering needs
Tribulus macropterus Boiss. is a drought-tolerant plant that does not require frequent watering. However, during the initial establishment, the plants need to be watered regularly to encourage rooting and growth. The best practice is to water the plants deeply once a week, allowing the water to penetrate at least 15-20 cm into the soil. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Tribulus macropterus Boiss. does not require heavy fertilization and can grow well in poor soils. However, to promote healthy growth and flowering, it is recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer with higher amounts of phosphorus and potassium. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months as it can interfere with the plant's natural cycle.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for Tribulus macropterus Boiss. However, to promote bushier growth and enhance the visual appeal, the plant can be pruned lightly after flowering. Use a sharp pair of garden scissors to remove dried and dead plant material. Cut back the stems to a healthy node or to the base of the plant. Avoid pruning the plant during the winter months as it can interfere with the plant's natural cycle.
Propagation of Tribulus macropterus Boiss.
Tribulus macropterus Boiss. is a low-growing herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Zygophyllaceae. The plant is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly found in rocky and sandy areas.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Tribulus macropterus Boiss. is usually done by seeds. The seeds of the plant are easy to collect and germinate. The seedlings grow quickly and can be transplanted after a few weeks.
The seeds of Tribulus macropterus Boiss. should be collected when they are mature. The seeds are small and black in color. They should be dried in the sun for a few days to eliminate any moisture.
After drying the seeds, they can be directly sown in well-drained soil. The seeds should be planted about 1 cm deep in the soil and watered regularly. The germination of the seeds takes about 10-14 days.
Propagation by Cuttings
Tribulus macropterus Boiss. can also be propagated by cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from the mature plant during the growing season. The cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long and should have a few leaves.
The cuttings should be planted in well-drained soil. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area for a few days until they have established roots.
After the cuttings have established roots, they can be transplanted to their permanent location. The cuttings are usually slower to grow than seedlings.
Propagation by Division
Tribulus macropterus Boiss. can also be propagated by division of the mature plant. The plants should be dug up during the dormant season. The roots should be divided into smaller pieces and each piece should have a few shoots.
The divisions should be planted in well-drained soil. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. The divisions should be kept in a shaded area for a few days until they have established roots.
After the divisions have established roots, they can be transplanted to their permanent location. Division is a slower method of propagation than seed and cutting methods.
Disease and Pest Management for Tribulus Macropterus Boiss.
Tribulus Macropterus Boiss. is a plant species that is widely grown for its various medicinal properties. Like any other plant, they are susceptible to diseases and pests that could affect their overall health and yield. As such, proper disease and pest management practices are essential for the successful cultivation of this plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect Tribulus Macropterus Boiss., along with suggestions on how to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Fungal Leaf Spot: Fungal leaf spot is a common disease that affects Tribulus Macropterus Boiss. The symptoms of this disease include black or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. The spots may merge and cause the leaf to turn yellow and eventually die. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves as soon as possible. You can also apply a copper-based fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
2. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that affects Tribulus Macropterus Boiss. It appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. The infected parts of the plant may also become stunted and distorted. You can manage this disease by improving air circulation around the plant, pruning infected plant parts, and applying a sulfur-based fungicide.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are common pests that suck the sap out of the leaves and stems of the plant. This causes the plant to weaken and may lead to stunted growth and poor yield. To manage aphids, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings, spray neem oil or insecticidal soap on the plant, or blast the plant with water to dislodge the aphids.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and eventually die. You can manage spider mites by increasing humidity around the plant, pruning infected plant parts, or spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
By practicing proper disease and pest management techniques, you can maintain the health and vigor of your Tribulus Macropterus Boiss. plants and ensure a bountiful yield.
