Plant Description:
Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri, also known as puncture vine or goat's head, is a mat-forming, perennial plant that grows up to 60 cm in height and 1.5 m in width. It belongs to the family Zygophyllaceae and is native to southern Africa, where it can be found in grasslands, savannas, and rocky outcrops.
Appearance:
The plant has a woody taproot and several spreading branches that are covered in pairs of opposite, pinnate leaves. Each leaf has 4-6 pairs of elliptic leaflets with a slightly hairy surface. The stem and leaves are green and have sharp thorns that can cause injury to animals and humans. The flowers are small, yellow, and five-petalled, and they bloom in late spring to early summer. The fruits are spiky capsules that contain several seeds.
Common Names and Uses:
Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri is known by many common names such as puncture vine, bullhead, caltrop, devil's thorn, and goat's head. The plant has several medicinal uses, such as treating kidney problems, constipation, and coughs. The fruits are also used as an aphrodisiac and to boost the immune system. The thorny branches are traditionally used as fencing material to protect crops and gardens from animals.
Growth Conditions of Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri
Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri grows well in areas with sufficient light. It thrives in full sunlight, although it can also survive in partial shade. The plant needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to grow properly.
Regarding temperature, this plant species prefers warm temperatures, and it can grow in a wide range of temperature conditions. The optimum temperature range for this plant is between 20°C and 32°C. Temperatures above or below this range may hinder the growth and development of the plant.
Regarding soil requirements, Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri can grow in a wide range of soil types. However, the plant thrives well in well-draining soils with a low to moderate nutrient level. The plant can also grow in soils with a high salt content, such as those found in saline areas.
Additionally, the plant requires minimal water and can tolerate drought conditions well. Overwatering can hinder its growth, so it is essential to avoid waterlogging the soil. Proper watering during the early stages of growth is crucial to help the plant establish healthy roots.
In conclusion, Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri grows well in warm temperatures, full sunlight, well-draining soils with low to moderate nutrient level and adequate but minimal watering during its early stages of growth.
Cultivation
Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri, commonly known as puncture vine, is native to southern Africa. It thrives in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6 to 8.5. The plant is tolerant of full sun and has excellent heat tolerance. The best time to plant the puncture vine seeds is in the spring.
The seeds can be sown directly into the planting bed or started indoors in trays about six to eight weeks before the last frost. Transplant the seedlings outdoors after the threat of frost has passed, and the soil temperature has reached around 60°F. Space the plants at least 18 to 24 inches apart.
Watering needs
The puncture vine is a drought-resistant plant and requires less water once established. Water the plant during the growing season only when the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot, and the plant may eventually die. During the dormant season, reduce watering frequency.
Fertilization
The puncture vine is a self-fertilizing plant and does not require a lot of fertilizer. However, you can feed the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the early growing season. Avoid applying fertilizer during the hot summer months.
Pruning
Pruning the puncture vine promotes denser foliage growth and enhances the plant's appearance. Trim away any dead or damaged leaves and branches. Pinch back the tips of the plant's stems regularly to promote branching and bushiness. You can also prune the plant in late winter to early spring to remove old or overgrown stems.
Propagation Methods for Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri
Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri, commonly known as spiny fruits or goat's head, can be propagated both by seed and vegetatively.
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Tribulus zeyheri is by seeds. The seeds can be collected from the ripened fruits. After collecting, the seeds must be cleaned, treated, and sown immediately.
Before sowing, the seeds must be soaked in water for 24 hours. This process will help the seeds germinate faster. The seeds must be sown at a depth of 1 to 2 cm in well-drained soil.
The best time to sow the seeds is at the beginning of the rainy season. The seedlings should emerge within two weeks. The young plants should be transplanted to their permanent location after they have reached a height of 5 to 10 cm.
Vegetative Propagation
Tribulus zeyheri can also be propagated vegetatively, although this method is more complicated than seed propagation.
The plant can be propagated vegetatively by stem cuttings or root cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken from mature plants during the growing season; root cuttings should be taken during the dormant season.
The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone before planting. They should be planted in a well-drained soil mixture, with a high proportion of sand, and kept moist until roots and new growth appear.
Overall, Tribulus zeyheri is a relatively easy plant to propagate and can be quickly established through either seed or vegetative propagation methods.
Disease and Pest Management for Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri
Tribulus zeyheri Sond. subsp. zeyheri, commonly known as puncture vine, is a woody perennial herb that is indigenous to southern Africa. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought, heat, and poor soil conditions. However, like any other plant, puncture vine is susceptible to diseases and pests. In this section, we will discuss some of the common diseases and pests that might affect puncture vine and provide suggestions for managing them.
Common Diseases
Puncture vine can be affected by fungal, viral, and bacterial diseases. Some of the common diseases that may affect it include:
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes circular or angular brown spots on the leaves. The affected leaves may eventually drop off, and severe infections can cause defoliation. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected plant parts and apply a fungicide.
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can stunt growth and reduce yield. To manage powdery mildew, prune infected plant parts, improve air circulation, and apply a fungicide.
- Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot, leading to stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of the leaves. To manage root rot, practice crop rotation, ensure proper drainage, and apply a fungicide.
Common Pests
Puncture vine can also be attacked by various insect pests. Some of the common pests that may affect it include:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and become distorted. To manage aphids, use a strong stream of water to dislodge them, encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings, and apply insecticidal soap.
- Scale insects: These are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems and suck sap from the plant. They can cause yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth, and leaf drop. To manage scale insects, prune heavily infested plant parts, apply horticultural oil, and encourage natural predators.
- Caterpillars: These are the larval stages of moths and butterflies that can cause extensive damage to the foliage. They can defoliate the plant and stunt its growth. To manage caterpillars, handpick them from the plant, encourage natural predators, and apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
It is essential to monitor your puncture vine regularly for signs of diseases and pests and to take action promptly to manage them. A combination of cultural practices and chemical controls can help keep your plant healthy and productive.
