Origin
Tribulus terrestris L. var. desertorum Sond. is a plant species that belongs to the family Zygophyllaceae. It is native to the warm temperate and tropical regions of the world, including parts of Asia, Africa, Europe, and Australia.
Common Names
The plant is commonly called puncturevine, caltrop, goathead, bullhead, and bindii. The name "caltrop" is derived from the fact that the plant's spiny seed pods resemble the medieval weapon of the same name, which was used to impede advancing troops.
Uses
Tribulus terrestris L. var. desertorum Sond. has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. The plant has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including infertility, erectile dysfunction, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure. It has also been used as a diuretic and to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.
In addition to its medicinal properties, puncturevine has culinary uses as well. Its leaves are used as a vegetable in some parts of Asia, and its seeds have been roasted and used as a coffee substitute.
General Appearance
Tribulus terrestris L. var. desertorum Sond. is a low-growing plant that can reach up to 30 cm in height. It has pinnately compound leaves with leaflets that grow in pairs opposite each other. The plant produces yellow flowers that are approximately 6 mm in size and have five petals. Its fruit is a woody, spiny burr that breaks into five segments, each containing a single seed.
The seeds of puncturevine are distinctive, with two to four sharp spines that can puncture rubber tires and even bicycle tires if left on the road. Because of this, the plant is considered a noxious weed in many parts of the world and can be difficult to control once established.
Light Requirements
Tribulus terrestris L. var. desertorum Sond. is a desert plant that requires full sunlight to grow optimally. Therefore, it would be best to plant it in areas that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Lack of adequate light may lead to poor growth, weak stems, and yellowing of leaves.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is known for its tolerance to extreme temperatures, particularly high heat. Optimal temperatures for growth are between 25°C and 35°C. However, it can also endure temperatures above 40°C and as low as 5°C. Freezing temperatures may cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Tribulus terrestris L. var. desertorum Sond. prefers well-drained soil that is nutrient-rich, sandy, and rocky. The ideal soil pH ranges from 7.5 to 8. Soil fertility also plays a vital role in the growth of this plant. Therefore, it is recommended to add compost or organic fertilizer to the soil before planting. Avoid waterlogged soils, as they can cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Tribulus terrestris L. var. desertorum Sond. requires well-drained, loamy soil and full sun. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels and grows well in arid conditions. It is best to sow the seeds in the spring or early summer, once the soil has warmed to at least 20°C. Sow the seeds 1-2 cm deep and 30-45 cm apart. The plant requires good air circulation, so avoid overcrowding by ensuring adequate spacing.
Watering Needs
Watering heavily and then allowing the soil to dry out before watering again is the best method. Overwatering can lead to root rot. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive periods of little to no rainfall, but it is best to water it once a week during the growing season if rainfall is scarce.
Fertilization
Tribulus terrestris L. var. desertorum Sond. benefits from an annual application of compost or well-rotted manure in the early spring. Fertilizer high in phosphorus, which is essential for flowering and fruiting, should be applied once a month during the growing season.
Pruning
Tribulus terrestris L. var. desertorum Sond. does not require much pruning. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches in the early spring. The plant can be trimmed to maintain a desired size and shape.
Propagation of Tribulus terrestris L. var. desertorum Sond.
Tribulus terrestris L. var. desertorum Sond., commonly known as puncturevine or caltrop, is a hardy perennial plant that is commonly propagated through seeds. However, the plant can also be propagated through stem cuttings and division of the roots.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Tribulus terrestris L. var. desertorum Sond. can be sown in nursery beds or seed trays during spring or summer. The seeds should be sown shallowly at a depth of 1-2 cm and spaced 5-10 cm apart. The soil should be well-drained and fertile, with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. The seedlings should be watered regularly but not excessively to prevent waterlogging and damping off disease.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Tribulus terrestris L. var. desertorum Sond. can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from healthy and disease-free plants during the spring or summer months. The cuttings should be 7-10 cm long and taken from the strongest stems of the plant. The bottom ends of the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained soil mix. The cuttings should be watered regularly and placed in a shaded area until new roots have formed.
Root Division Propagation
In addition, Tribulus terrestris L. var. desertorum Sond. can be propagated through root division. The plant should be dug up and the roots should be divided into sections with a sharp and sterile knife. The sections should have at least one healthy shoot and root system. The divided sections should be planted in a well-drained soil mix and watered regularly. The plant should be kept in a shaded area until it establishes new roots and shoots.
Disease and Pest Management for Tribulus Terrestris L. var. Desertorum Sond.
Tribulus Terrestris L. var. Desertorum Sond. is a drought-resistant plant that grows in dry regions. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot Disease - This disease is prevalent during rainy seasons. Symptoms include the development of brown spots on leaves, which can spread and cause the plants to go yellow and die. The best way to manage the disease is by pruning the affected parts and ensuring proper soil drainage to reduce the moisture on leaves.
2. Powdery Mildew - Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, causing them to appear covered in a white, powdery substance. The best way to manage it is by using appropriate fungicides at the first sign of the disease. Pruning infected parts can also prevent the spread of the disease.
3. Anthracnose - Anthracnose is a fungal disease prevalent during the rainy seasons. Symptoms include brown to black spots on leaves. The best way to manage the disease is by providing optimum spacing between plants to allow for adequate air circulation, reducing humidity and moisture on the plant's surface. Treatment with appropriate fungicides can also help manage the disease.
Pests
1. Aphids - Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from plant leaves and cause stunted growth, curling or yellowing leaves, and transmission of viruses. The best way to manage aphids is by using specific insecticides such as neem oil and soaps suitable for organic gardening applications. Natural predators such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps can also help reduce aphid population.
2. Spider mites - Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from the leaves and cause yellowing of leaves and leaf drop. The best way to manage these pests is by using acaricides, sprays and irrigation that can increase humidity levels, reducing the infestation levels.
3. Whiteflies - Whiteflies are tiny insects that suck sap from plant leaves and cause discoloration, stunted growth, and plant weakness. The best way to manage them is by using appropriate insecticides and natural predators such as parasitic wasps to control its population.
By following the above-described disease and pest management practices, you can ensure healthy plants, an abundant yield and reduce the cost incurred in managing the diseases and pests.
