Origin and Common Names
Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri is a plant species native to southern Africa, specifically found in Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. It is commonly known as the puncturevine, goathead, or caltrop.General Appearance
The puncturevine is a low-growing, woody perennial with branching stems that can grow up to 2.5 meters long. The plant has pinnately compound leaves, with each leaflet being about 5-20 millimeters long. The plant produces small yellow flowers with five petals, which are followed by a fruit that splits into four to five nutlets.Uses
In traditional African medicine, Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri is used to treat a variety of ailments, including headache, fever, and infertility. The fruits of the plant are also used for culinary purposes in some African countries. The plant is also known for its spiky burrs, which can cause puncture wounds to livestock and humans. As a result, it has been used as a natural barrier to deter animals from grazing in certain areas, particularly in Australia and the United States. The plant is also used as a natural remedy for controlling soil erosion in some regions.Light Requirements
Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri thrives well in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight to optimize its growth potential. When planted indoors, the plant should be positioned near a window or an area that gets enough natural light.
Temperature Tolerance
The plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures, from as low as -10°C to as high as 40°C. However, optimal growth occurs at temperatures between 20°C to 30°C. While the plant can survive in areas with low temperatures and frost, it is not recommended to expose it to temperatures lower than -10°C for extended periods.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soils are optimal for the growth of Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri. Sandy or loamy soils that retain some moisture but are not too waterlogged are preferred. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is suitable for this plant.
Cultivation methods
Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri grows well in sandy or rocky soil and needs full sunlight. It is best to propagate the plant from seeds, which should be sown during the warm months. The soil should be kept moist during the germination period, which usually takes between 2-4 weeks. When the seedlings are strong enough, they may be transplanted to their permanent outdoor location.Watering needs
Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri is naturally adapted to arid regions and can, therefore, tolerate periods of drought. However, for optimal growth, it is important to water regularly, especially during the plant's active growing season. Watering should be done deeply and infrequently to help establish deep roots and reduce the chances of fungal infections.Fertilization
Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri requires minimal fertilization. Overfertilizing can lead to an overgrowth of foliage at the expense of flowering. When necessary, a slow-release fertilizer, with a balanced N-P-K ratio, can be applied in the soil around the plant during the active growing season.Pruning
Pruning of Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri should be minimal, and done mainly to shape the plant or remove dead or diseased parts. The plant produces flowers on new growth, and therefore, any pruning should be done immediately after the plant has completed its flowering period. Regular deadheading of spent flowers will encourage the plant to produce more blooms.Propagation of Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri
Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri is commonly propagated by seeds. The ideal time for seed collection is when the fruits are completely dry and begin to split open. The seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until sowing. Seeds of Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri have a hard seed coat, and scarification or soaking the seeds in hot water can help to break dormancy.
Once the seeds have been scarified, they can be sown in a seed tray or directly into the ground. The soil should be well-draining, and a mixture of sand, compost, and soil is recommended. The seed should be sown to a depth of approximately 1-2 cm and watered well.
Germination of Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri seeds usually occurs within 1-2 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location once they have reached a height of approximately 5-10 cm.
Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri can also be propagated through cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings should be taken during the growing season, from healthy and disease-free plants. The cuttings should be approximately 10-15cm in length, and should have at least 2-3 nodes. The leaves on the lower part of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture. Bottom heat can be provided to encourage rooting.
Disease Management
The plant Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri is relatively disease-resistant. However, there are some common diseases that may pose a threat to the plant, such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust.
Avoiding overhead watering and providing adequate air circulation around the plant can help prevent mildew and other fungal infections. If signs of infection are present, a fungicide can be applied according to label instructions. In the case of severe infection, removing and destroying the infected parts may be required.
Leaf spot is a common bacterial disease that can affect Tribulus zeyheri. Maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding crowding of plants can help prevent the disease from appearing. If signs of leaf spot are present, it is necessary to remove defoliated leaves and destroy them. A bacterial copper spray may also be applied as a preventative measure.
Rust is another common fungal disease that can infect Tribulus zeyheri. Rust infection can be prevented by providing proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. If rust infection is present, the affected parts must be removed, and a fungicide should be applied according to label instructions.
Pest Management
Some common pests that may affect Tribulus zeyheri include spider mites, aphids, and thrips. A regular inspection of the plant can help detect these pests before they cause extensive damage.
Spider mites can cause defoliation, stunted growth, and discoloration of leaves. These pests can be prevented by practicing proper hygiene and using insecticidal soaps or oils. If spider mite infestation is extensive, use miticidal sprays as recommended by experts.
Aphids cause damage by sucking plant sap, which leads to yellow or curled foliage. Aphid infestations can be deterred by regularly spraying the plant with a strong stream of water. Additionally, insecticidal soaps, oils, or neem oil may be used as a preventative measure.
Thrips are small pests that suck plant sap, causing distorted and damaged plant tissues. Thrips can be prevented by maintaining proper plant hygiene and using sticky traps. If thrip infestation is unmanageable, an insecticidal spray can be used as recommended by experts.
