Overview of Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris
Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the family Zygophyllaceae. It is commonly known as puncturevine, goathead, or devil's thorn, and is native to warm temperate and tropical regions of Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia.
Appearance of Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris
The plant is an annual or perennial herb that produces spreading stems. It has yellow flowers with five petals and spiny fruits that split into five sections. The leaves are pinnate with small leaflets that are ovate or lanceolate in shape. The plant grows to a height of 20-60 cm and has a widespread root system.
Uses of Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris
Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris has been traditionally used in various traditional systems of medicine for its medicinal properties. The plant has been used as an aphrodisiac, diuretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory agent. It has also been used to treat high blood pressure, infertility, and as a general health tonic.
Recently, Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris has gained popularity as a dietary supplement among athletes and bodybuilders. It is believed to enhance athletic performance, increase muscle mass, and boost testosterone levels. However, more research is needed to confirm these claims.
The plant is also used in the production of traditional medicines, cosmetics, and as a natural dye.
In summary, Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris is a spiny plant with yellow flowers and spiny fruits. It has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine, as well as in dietary supplements and cosmetic products.Light Requirements
Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. Therefore, it is recommended to grow it in an open space where it can receive sunlight for 6-8 hours a day. Insufficient light may cause the plant to grow weak, thin and reduce the flowering capacity.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris is between 20-30°C. The plant is well adapted to hot, dry climates, and can withstand temperatures up to 45°C. However, temperatures below 10°C may cause the plant to die, and frost can cause serious damage to the plant's foliage and roots.
Soil Requirements
Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and even poor soils, as long as the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged. The plant prefers a slightly alkaline to neutral soil pH of between 7.0-8.0. Adding organic matter to the soil before planting can improve soil structure and fertility, which can promote better growth and flowering of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris can be grown from seeds sown directly in the soil or started indoors and transplanted. The best time to plant seeds or transplant seedlings is in the spring, once the danger of frost has passed. The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It also requires full sun and a warm climate.
Watering Needs
The plant needs regular watering, particularly during the germination period and when it is establishing itself. However, it can tolerate drought conditions. The goal is to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, to avoid root rot.
Fertilization
Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris requires a low to medium amount of fertilizer. Organic fertilizers are highly recommended, as they gradually release nutrients into the soil and promote healthy growth. Fertilizer should be applied during the active growing season, from early spring until late summer.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary but can promote a more branched and compact growth. If desired, prune the plant regularly during the active growing season. Remove any damaged or diseased branches and trim the plant to the desired shape. However, avoid pruning in the fall and winter, as this can damage the plant and reduce its resistance to cold weather.
Propagation of Tribulus Terrestris L. var. Terrestris
Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods. Following are the various propagation methods:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris is through the seed. The plant can produce abundant seeds that can be collected and sowed in the desired location. The seeds should be harvested from mature fruits that have turned brown and crackled. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil, lightly cover them with soil, and water them regularly.
Cuttings Propagation
Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem and cut a 6-10 cm long cutting from it. Remove the leaves from the bottom portion of the cutting and dip it in rooting hormone powder. Then, place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and water it adequately.
Division Propagation
Another method of propagating Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris is by dividing the existing parent plant. This process involves separating a single plant into two or more parts. In the spring or fall, when the plant is not actively growing, dig up the parent plant and carefully separate the root clusters into sections, ensuring that each section has a portion of the stem. Transplant the divided plant sections into prepared soil, water them adequately, and allow the roots to establish.
Grafting Propagation
Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris can also be propagated through grafting. This method involves cutting scions from a parent plant and joining them with a rootstock of another compatible plant. However, grafting is a complex technique and requires specific skills and knowledge.
Propagation of Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris can be achieved through various methods. However, while selecting the method of propagation, take into consideration the success rate, time required for the process, and availability of resources.
Disease and Pest Management for Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris
Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris is a hardy plant that can thrive in different environments, but disease and pests can still affect its optimal growth and yield.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris is fungal infections. Fungi like Fusarium and Phytophthora can cause wilting, yellowing, and decay of the plant. To manage fungal diseases, it is essential to maintain proper cultural practices. Avoid excessive watering, especially during rainy seasons, and ensure adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging. It would be best if you also practiced crop rotation, incorporating fungicides when necessary.
Bacterial infections can also affect Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris. Bacteria-like Pseudomonas and Xanthomonas can cause severe spots, discoloration, and wilting. To manage bacterial infections, you should practice crop rotation and regular pruning of affected plants' parts. Implementing good hygiene practices like sterilizing farm tools will also go a long way in preventing bacterial infections.
Common Pests
There are several pests that can affect Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Aphids feed on plant sap and can cause yellowing and stunted growth. Spider mites suck plant juices and cause yellow stippling and eventual leaf fall. Whiteflies suck plant sap and cause yellowing, withering, and even death of the plant. To manage these pests, cultural control methods like regular pruning of affected parts and companion planting can help. You can also use insecticides containing pyrethrin or neem oil to control these pests.
Caterpillars and cutworms are other common pests that can cause significant damage to Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris. These pests feed on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing holes, chewing damage, and even defoliation. To manage these pests, you should practice crop rotation and clean cultivation to eliminate hiding places for the pests. You can also use insecticides containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to control caterpillars and cutworms.
Conclusion
Effective disease and pest management are essential for the optimal growth and yield of Tribulus terrestris L. var. terrestris. Preventive cultural practices like crop rotation, pruning affected parts, and good hygiene practices are crucial in managing diseases and pests. The use of insecticides and fungicides should only be a last resort when cultural controls have failed.
