Overview:
Tribulus pubescens G.Don, also known as Kharr, is a species of flowering plant in the family Zygophyllaceae. It is widely distributed throughout India, Pakistan, and other parts of Asia.
General Appearance:
The plant typically grows up to 50 cm in height, and it has a woody stem and long tap roots. The leaves are small and arranged alternately along the stem, and the flowers are yellowish-white and clustered at the end of the branches. The fruit is a spiny burr, which contains one to four seeds.
Common Names:
Tribulus pubescens G.Don is known by several common names, including Kharr, Aabresham, and Gokhru Choti.
Uses:
The plant has been used in traditional medicine for its various pharmacological properties. The fruits and roots of Tribulus pubescens are used to treat kidney and bladder problems, arthritis, infertility, asthma, and other ailments. In addition, the plant has also been used as a natural aphrodisiac and as a remedy for sexual dysfunction in both men and women.
Apart from its medicinal uses, the plant also has agricultural benefits. The seeds of Tribulus pubescens are used to make a natural fertilizer, and the plant is used as a forage crop for livestock.
Light Requirements
Tribulus pubescens G.Don thrives in areas where there is ample sunlight. For optimal growth, it requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. When the plant does not receive enough sunlight, it tends to become leggy, and its growth slows as well.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm to hot temperatures. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 20-30°C. The plant is sensitive to frost and should be protected during colder months.
Soil Requirements
Tribulus pubescens G.Don can adapt to various soil types, but it grows best in well-drained soil with moderate fertility. The plant prefers the soil to have a pH range of 6.0-7.5. In alkaline soil, the plant may experience some nutrient deficiencies. However, the plant can thrive in harsher terrain and withstands drought-prone areas. Despite this, it still requires sufficient water, but it must be carefully monitored to avoid overwatering and root rot.
Cultivation methods
Tribulus pubescens G.Don is a hardy plant that can grow in various soil types. It prefers soils that are well-draining and slightly acidic to neutral. It thrives in areas with abundant sunshine and moderate temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor cultivation.
The ideal time to plant Tribulus pubescens G.Don is during the spring season. The seeding can be done directly on the prepared beds by scattering the seeds and lightly raking them into the soil. Alternatively, the seeds can be started indoors and later transplanted to the garden when they reach an appropriate size.
Watering needs
Watering is essential for the growth and development of Tribulus pubescens G.Don. It requires moderate watering, especially during the early stages of growth to ensure the soil remains moist. However, excessive watering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and stunted growth.
It is advisable to water the plant during the morning or evening hours when temperatures are lower. This will minimize water evaporation and potential damage to the leaves and stems.
Fertilization
Tribulus pubescens G.Don benefits from regular fertilization to boost growth and maintain good health. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus is recommended for efficient nutrient uptake. The application of fertilizers should be done every four to six weeks during the growing season, starting from the second month after planting.
It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying the fertilizers to avoid over-fertilization, which can harm the plant.
Pruning
Pruning Tribulus pubescens G.Don is not necessary for optimal growth as it is a low-maintenance plant. However, for an aesthetic appeal and to remove any diseased or damaged stems, pruning can be done during the fall or winter when the plant is dormant.
Cut off any dead or diseased stems as close to the base as possible, leaving only healthy stems. Avoid over-pruning as it can lead to reduced flowering in the following season.
Propagation of Tribulus pubescens G.Don
Tribulus pubescens G.Don can be propagated either sexually or asexually.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation of Tribulus pubescens G.Don can be done by collecting its seeds during the fruiting season. The seeds can be sown immediately or can be stored in a cool and dry place for later use. The seeds are usually sown during the spring season in well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. After sowing, the seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and watered regularly. The seeds will germinate in 2-3 weeks.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of Tribulus pubescens G.Don can be done through vegetative means such as stem cuttings and root cuttings.
Stem cuttings can be taken from a healthy plant during the growing season. The cutting should be about 10-12 cm in length and should have 2-3 nodes. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained soil that is kept moist. The cuttings will root in about 3-4 weeks.
Root cuttings can also be taken from a healthy plant during the dormant season. The cuttings should be about 2-3 cm in length and should have 1-2 nodes. The cuttings should be planted in a well-drained soil and kept moist. The cuttings will develop new shoots after the dormancy period and new plants will grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Tribulus Pubescens G.Don
Tribulus pubescens G.Don, commonly known as the hairy-fruited tribulus, is a flowering plant native to Asia, Africa, and Australia. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a wide range of soils and environments. However, like any plant, tribulus pubescens can be affected by diseases and pests that can damage its growth and yield.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect tribulus pubescens is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause a white, powdery coating to appear on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. This can reduce the plant's ability to photosynthesize, leading to reduced growth and yield. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to remove infected plant parts and to spray the plant with fungicides.
Rust is another fungal disease that can affect tribulus pubescens. Rust appears as orange or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. The disease can spread quickly and can cause the leaves to wither and die. To manage rust, it is recommended to remove infected plant parts and to spray the plant with fungicides.
Common Pests
Tribulus pubescens can also be affected by a range of pests. One of the most common pests is the whitefly. Whiteflies are small, winged insects that feed on the leaves of the plant. They can cause the leaves to yellow and can spread viruses to the plant. To manage whiteflies, it is recommended to use yellow sticky traps and to spray the plant with insecticides.
Another common pest is the aphid. Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause the leaves to curl and can spread viruses to the plant. To manage aphids, it is recommended to remove infected plant parts and to spray the plant with insecticides.
Preventive Measures
One of the best ways to manage diseases and pests is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. This can be done through good plant management practices such as avoiding overwatering, ensuring adequate sunlight, and rotating crops. It is also important to inspect the plant regularly for signs of disease and pests, and to promptly remove infected plant parts.
In summary, tribulus pubescens G.Don can be affected by a range of diseases and pests. To manage these, it is important to use a combination of preventive measures, such as good plant management practices, and reactive measures, such as removing infected plant parts and using insecticides and fungicides.
