Tribulus Cristatus
Contents
Description
Tribulus Cristatus, commonly known as the Crested Caltrop or the Southern Sandbur, is a plant species native to Africa. It belongs to the family Zygophyllaceae and is an annual herb that can grow up to 20-30 cm in height. The plant has a unique feature that distinguishes it from other species – its fruits have four curved spines that resemble a horseshoe crab.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Zygophyllales |
| Family | Zygophyllaceae |
| Genus | Tribulus |
Appearance
The Tribulus Cristatus has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other plant species. The plant has a prostrate growth habit and can grow up to 20-30 cm in height. It has small leaves that are arranged in opposite pairs along the stems. The flowers are yellow and have five petals, and the fruit is a capsule with four curved spines.
Care Guide
To ensure that your Tribulus Cristatus thrives, you need to provide it with the right care. Here’s a detailed guide on how to take care of this plant:Water: The plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the topsoil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.Fertilization: The plant needs a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.Soil: The plant grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight to grow well.Hardiness Zones: The plant grows well in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Tribulus Cristatus is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and root rot. To prevent these diseases, ensure that you provide the plant with the right care, including proper watering and fertilization.
Habitat
The Tribulus Cristatus is native to Africa and can be found in sandy and rocky areas. It thrives in hot and dry conditions and can tolerate high temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Tribulus Cristatus an annual or perennial plant?A: The Tribulus Cristatus is an annual plant.Q: What is the best soil type for the Tribulus Cristatus?A: The plant grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.Q: Does the Tribulus Cristatus require a lot of water?A: No, the plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the topsoil is dry to the touch.Q: What is the unique feature of the Tribulus Cristatus?A: The plant’s fruits have four curved spines that resemble a horseshoe crab.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Tribulus Cristatus:- Tribulus Terrestris – Zygophyllum Dumosum – Fagonia Cretica – Peganum Harmala
References
– “Tribulus Cristatus.” PlantZAfrica.com, www.plantzafrica.com/planttuv/tribulcrist.htm.- “Tribulus Cristatus.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 28 Nov. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tribulus_cristatus.
