Contents
Description
Tribulus Cistoides, commonly known as the yellow vine or puncturevine, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family. This plant is native to North and South America and can be found in many areas with dry and hot climates. The plant produces yellow flowers and small fruits with sharp spines that can puncture tires and cause injury to animals and humans. The plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, particularly in treating urinary problems, but it should be used with caution due to its potential side effects.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Zygophyllales |
| Family | Zygophyllaceae |
| Genus | Tribulus |
Appearance
Tribulus Cistoides is a trailing or climbing plant that can grow up to 3 meters long. The leaves are small, green, and have a pinnate shape. The flowers are bright yellow and have five petals. The fruits are small, round, and covered in sharp spines. The plant produces a taproot that can grow up to 1 meter deep, allowing it to withstand drought conditions.
Care Guide
When caring for Tribulus Cistoides, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering, but it will benefit from occasional deep watering during periods of extreme drought. Fertilization is not necessary, but adding a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can help promote healthy growth. Tribulus Cistoides can grow in a wide range of hardiness zones, from 9a to 11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tribulus Cistoides is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to fungal infections in humid conditions. The sharp spines on the fruit can also attract animals that may damage the plant. Regular pruning can help prevent these problems and promote healthy growth.
Habitat
Tribulus Cistoides is native to North and South America and can be found in many areas with dry and hot climates, particularly in coastal regions. This plant prefers well-draining soils and can grow in a variety of habitats, including sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and disturbed areas. It is commonly found along roadsides and in fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Tribulus Cistoides poisonous?
A: While Tribulus Cistoides is not considered poisonous, it should be used with caution due to its potential side effects. The plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, particularly in treating urinary problems, but it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using it.
Q: How often should I water my Tribulus Cistoides plant?
A: Tribulus Cistoides is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water deeply once every 2-3 weeks during periods of extreme drought.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Tribulus Cistoides?
A: Tribulus Cistoides can grow in a wide range of hardiness zones, from 9a to 11b.
Q: Can Tribulus Cistoides be grown indoors?
A: While Tribulus Cistoides is a hardy plant, it is not typically grown indoors. It requires plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil, which can be difficult to provide indoors.
Related Plants
- Tribulus Terrestris
- Tribulus Alatus
- Tribulus Longipetalus
References
- USDA Plants Database
- Missouri Botanical Garden
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
- Flowers of India
