Origin
Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus (Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) Hadidi belongs to the family Zygophyllaceae. This plant is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in various parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as puncturevine, devil's thorn, caltrop, and goathead. These names are due to its sharp and spiny fruit, which can puncture bicycle tires and hurt animal hooves.
Uses
Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus has several medicinal benefits. It has been traditionally used as an aphrodisiac, diuretic, and antihypertensive agent. It also contains active compounds that have shown potential in improving athletic performance and treating sexual dysfunction.
The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat several health conditions, including kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and infertility. In some parts of the world, the seeds of Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus are roasted and consumed as a coffee substitute.
This plant is also used as a natural fertilizer as it helps regulate soil moisture level and prevents soil erosion.
General Appearance
Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus is a low-growing annual plant that grows up to 50 cm tall. It has small yellow flowers with five petals, and its fruit is a woody bur with two to four sharp spines that are 10 mm long. The stems and leaves of the plant are also spiny and have a hairy texture. It thrives in dry and warm climates and can grow in a wide range of soil types.
Light Conditions
The plant Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus (Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) Hadidi thrives in areas with plenty of sunlight exposure. Therefore, it's important to grow this plant in areas with full exposure to the sun for it to grow and develop optimally. Lack of enough sunlight may lead to stunted growth of the plant and even poor quality fruits.
Temperature Requirements
Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus (Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) Hadidi can grow and develop in a wide temperature range. However, it has a preference for areas with warmer temperatures and tolerates temperatures above 40°C. During colder seasons, the plant may go dormant, but the low-temperature ranges do not affect its ultimate development process significantly.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in sandy and loamy soils, but it prefers soils that drain easily. It requires well-draining soils because the roots may be susceptible to rotting in areas that have excess moisture content. However, the plant tolerates poor soils that lack nutrients, and apply fertilizers in low doses to enhance optimal growth.
Cultivation methods
Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus (Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) Hadidi requires sandy, loamy, or clayey soil with a pH of 6.5 to 8. It grows well in full sun and is resistant to drought and pests. The ideal temperature for germination is 20-25°C. The plant can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or by division. Plant the seedlings in rows 50-75 cm apart, with a spacing of 10-15 cm between plants.
Watering needs
Since the plant is drought-tolerant, it requires little watering. Water deeply every two weeks during the growing season. In arid regions, you can water once a week. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. In the winter, reduce watering frequency, as the plant goes dormant.
Fertilization
Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus (Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) Hadidi is a low maintenance plant and does not require much fertilizer. Add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting. You can also use a slow-release granular fertilizer once every six months. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote leaf growth at the expense of fruiting.
Pruning
Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus (Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) Hadidi does not need pruning, as it grows into a compact, low-lying plant that does not have many branches. However, you can prune off the dead flowers and seed pods to improve the plant's appearance and redirect its energy towards producing new flowers and fruit.
Propagation of Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus (Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) Hadidi
Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus (Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) Hadidi can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus (Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) Hadidi can be sown directly into the soil after the last frost of winter. The soil should be well-drained and slightly alkaline. The seeds should be sown thinly on the soil surface and covered with a light layer of soil or sand. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The seeds usually germinate within 10-20 days.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus (Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) Hadidi. This method is usually used to produce new plants with desirable characteristics, such as bigger flowers or higher yields. Cuttings should be taken from the parent plant when it is actively growing. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and should be taken from the tip or middle of the shoot. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment until they root and start growing.
Division Propagation
Division is another propagation method that can be used to produce new plants of Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus (Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) Hadidi. This method involves dividing the root system of the parent plant into smaller sections, each containing a few stems and roots. The divisions should be carefully lifted from the soil and separated into smaller sections using a sharp knife or garden shears. Each division should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and watered regularly until it establishes.
Overall, Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus (Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) Hadidi can be propagated through different methods, both sexually and asexually. The choice of method depends on the grower's preference and the desired outcome.
Disease and Pest Management for Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus
Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus is a medicinal plant that is commonly grown in arid and semi-arid regions. As with all crops, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and yield. Proper disease and pest management practices are crucial for maintaining healthy and productive plants.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus is root rot. This is caused by soil-borne pathogens which attack the root system and cause wilting and yellowing of leaves. To manage root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering. Using fungicides can also help control the disease.
Another common disease that affects this plant is leaf blight. This is caused by fungi that infect the leaves, causing yellowing and wilting. To manage leaf blight, remove infected leaves and destroy them. Use a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
The most common pests that attack Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus are aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests suck sap from the leaves, causing deformities and stunted growth. To manage these pests, use insecticides that are effective against the specific pest. Introducing natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can also help control the pest population.
Cutworms and stem borers are other pests that can attack the root and stem of the plant, causing damage and reduced growth. To manage these pests, inspect the plants frequently and remove any infected parts. Use insecticides that are effective against cutworms and stem borers.
Conclusion
Tribulus terrestris L. var. bicornutus is a valuable medicinal plant that requires proper disease and pest management practices for optimal growth and yield. A combination of preventive and reactive measures, including good cultural practices, use of resistant cultivars, and implementation of chemical and biological control methods, can help prevent and manage diseases and pests in this plant.
