Overview
Tribulus ochroleucus (Maire) Ozenda & Quézel is a plant species belonging to the Zygophyllaceae family. It is a perennial plant that is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly found in several European countries.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known by various names, including Yellow Starthistle, Yellow Goat's-head, and Yellow-spine Goat's-head.
Appearance
Tribulus ochroleucus is a thorny plant that can grow up to a height of one meter. It has a deep taproot system and a branching stem that is green and covered with fine hair. The leaves are pinnately compound, grayish-green in color, and covered with soft hairs. The flowers of the plant are yellow and five-petaled, and the fruit is a five-lobed bur with sharp spines. The seeds inside the bur are smooth and hard.
Uses
The plant has several medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The seeds are known to be rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds and have been used to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. The plant has also been used to treat conditions like hypertension, cough, asthma, and bronchitis.
Tribulus ochroleucus is also used in landscaping due to its unique appearance. It is commonly used to create hedges or as a decorative plant in gardens due to its yellow flowers and spiny texture.
Growth Conditions for Tribulus ochroleucus (Maire) Ozenda & Quézel
Tribulus ochroleucus (Maire) Ozenda & Quézel, commonly known as yellow-spined burr, is a plant species that belongs to the family Zygophyllaceae, native to the western Mediterranean basin. It is an annual plant that grows up to 20-40 cm height and produces bright yellow flowers with five petals.
Light Requirements
Tribulus ochroleucus prefers areas with full sun exposure. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth. The plant may tolerate partial shade, but insufficient light may lead to weak stem and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The yellow-spined burr typically grows in warm, dry climates. It can withstand a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best between 20-30 °C during the day and 10-20 °C at night. Temperatures below 10 °C may stunt its growth, and frost can be lethal.
Soil Requirements
Tribulus ochroleucus prefers well-drained soils with low to moderate fertility. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or rocky soils. However, it thrives in neutral to slightly alkaline soils with a pH range of 7.0-7.5. The plant is highly drought-tolerant but cannot tolerate waterlogged soil.
Cultivation methods for Tribulus ochroleucus (Maire) Ozenda & Quézel
Tribulus ochroleucus (Maire) Ozenda & Quézel requires a well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. The plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate temperatures between 20-35°C. It is recommended to propagate the plant through seeds and to sow them during spring or summer. The seedlings should be kept in a warm place and watered regularly until they are sturdy enough to be moved to their permanent location.
Watering needs for Tribulus ochroleucus (Maire) Ozenda & Quézel
The plant requires moderate watering, with the frequency depending on the soil type and weather conditions. It is recommended to water the plant deeply, ensuring the water reaches the roots. Over-watering should be avoided, as it can cause root rot. In winter, when the plant is dormant, it should be watered sparingly.
Fertilization for Tribulus ochroleucus (Maire) Ozenda & Quézel
Fertilization is essential for the plant's growth, and organic manure should be used. It should be applied during the growing season, with the recommended dosage being one teaspoon per plant, once every two weeks. Over-fertilizing should be avoided, as it can harm the plant.
Pruning for Tribulus ochroleucus (Maire) Ozenda & Quézel
Tribulus ochroleucus (Maire) Ozenda & Quézel generally does not require pruning, as it does not grow very tall. However, it is advisable to remove any dead or diseased branches. If the plant requires shaping, it can be done after the flowering season. To avoid damaging the plant, it should not be pruned during winter.
Propagation of Tribulus ochroleucus
Tribulus ochroleucus can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods. Here are some details about each of the propagation methods:
Sexual Propagation
The plant produces small, yellow flowers that contain male and female reproductive organs. In their natural habitat, they rely on insects for pollination. The seeds mature shortly after pollination.
To propagate through sexual propagation, harvesters must collect the seeds from the plant. The seeds have hard exteriors, and it is essential to scarify them before planting to allow for the entry of water and air. Seedlings can be transplanted once they have developed at least two sets of true leaves.
Asexual Propagation
Tribulus ochroleucus grows well by dividing the plant or taking cuttings. Here are the two methods:
Division
The process involves removing young plants that sprout from the main plant's underground rhizomes. The young plant must have an extensive root system and two leaves. Using a sharp, clean knife, carefully separate the young plant from the main plant's rhizome. Once separated, plant the young plant in a suitable container filled with well-draining soil, and place in an area with bright, indirect sunlight. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Cuttings
Take a 4-6 inch cutting of the non-flowering stem of the plant, and remove the leaves from the lower few inches of the cutting. Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder and then place it in a well-draining potting mix. Water the cutting and place it in a bright, shaded area. With proper care, the cutting will grow roots in about two months.
Disease Management
Tribulus ochroleucus is generally resilient to pests and diseases but certain environmental conditions and neglect can make it susceptible to the following:
Bacterial Blight
Bacterial blight affects leaves and stems. The most vulnerable plants are those growing in warm, humid, and damp conditions. Infected leaves develop small brown spots that often coalesce. The affected areas eventually dry out, leaving holes on the leaves. Bacterial blight can easily spread to other parts of the plant, making it necessary to prune and dispose of diseased plant parts. To manage bacterial blight, avoid overhead irrigation, control insects that spread the disease, and use disease-resistant cultivars. Also, use a copper-based bactericide on infected plants or soil.
Fungal Leaf Spot
Fungal leaf spot affects the leaves, causing small, dark-colored spots with yellow halos. The spots may coalesce and grow over time, leading to defoliation. Fungal leaf spot thrives in warm, humid conditions and wet foliage. Management of fungal leaf spot includes removing infected leaves and maintaining proper spacing to facilitate air circulation. Additionally, avoid overhead irrigation and control weeds that harbor the disease. If the infection is severe, use a fungicide to manage the disease.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. The disease attacks the roots, causing them to turn brown and mushy. Infected plants often exhibit wilted leaves and stunted growth. To manage root rot, ensure the soil conditions are well-draining, avoiding overwatering, and provide proper aeration. Additionally, use sterilized soil and containers when propagating the plant.
Pest Management
Tribulus ochroleucus is generally resistant to pests, but the following may attack it:
Scale Insects
Scale insects are common pests of Tribulus ochroleucus. The insects attach themselves to the undersides of leaves, where they feed on the sap. The affected leaves develop yellow spots and eventually fall off. To manage infestations of scale insects, prune infected plant parts and apply an insecticidal soap or oil to the remaining plant. Additionally, avoid overcrowding plants and maintain proper soil moisture.
Aphids
Aphids are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can cause significant damage if left unchecked. They often congregate on the undersides of leaves in large numbers, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage infestations of aphids, introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings to the garden. Alternatively, use an insecticidal soap or oil to manage aphids. Regular pruning and the removal of weed hosts can also help control their spread.
