Puncture Vine
tribulus cistoides
Also known as: ["Goathead","Devil's Thorn"]
Overview
A low-growing annual herbaceous plant known for its spiny fruits and yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Zygophyllales |
| Family: | Zygophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Tribulus |
| Botanical Name: | Tribulus cistoides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, xeriscapes, or sunny, open ground
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once or twice a year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in intense heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of cactus soil and regular potting mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers stable conditions; tolerates mild frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove any dead or diseased growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth and better flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing in cold; stunted growth or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or scorch; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mechanical injury from the spines and seeds of Tribulus cistoides. Ingestion can lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation, though the plant is not chemically toxic.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe spines and seeds of Tribulus cistoides can cause mechanical injury to dogs upon contact or ingestion. While not chemically toxic, ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTribulus cistoides contains sharp spines and seeds that can cause mechanical injury upon contact. If ingested, the plant may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its physical properties rather than chemical toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tribulus cistoides toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does Tribulus cistoides grow?
A: It is a low-growing annual herb that spreads via spiny fruits.
Q: Is Tribulus cistoides suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, it is very easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Zygophyllaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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