Puncturevine
Tribulus terrestris L.
Family: Zygophyllaceae
Description and life cycle
Puncturevine is a herbaceous annual that reproduces by seed.
Trailing prostrate stems branch from the central crown, forming a
dense mat up to 2 m across. Stems are green and often tinged reddish
brown. The pinnately compound leaves grow in opposite pairs along
the stem. The entire plant is covered with hairs. Its taproot and
network of fine rootlets enable it to withstand extreme drought.
Bright yellow flowers are produced in leaf axils and appear from
June to September. The 1 cm flowers have five petals, appearing
similar to buttercup blooms. Seeds are contained within a circular,
spiny ‘bur-like’ seedpod that breaks apart when mature. The pod has
five sections, each with a chamber containing 2 – 4 seeds. Seeds can
remain dormant in soil for up to five years. The pods outer coat has
two stout, sharp spines capable of puncturing bicycle tires and
footwear. It is reported to be poisonous to animals causing
photosensitivity, however, it is more likely to pose a threat
through injury caused from the spiny seedpods.
Also known as goathead, Mexican sandbur, Texas
sandbur.
Biological control agent
References
Cranston, R. S. No date. Puncturevine. Field Crop Facts, Agdex 642. Prov. Govt. of BC. Min. Agric. And Food. 2 p.
Cranston, R., D. Ralph and B. Wikeem. 2005. Field guide to noxious and other selected weeds of British Columbia. Gov. of BC. 94 p.
MFR comments and observations.
Rees, N. E., Quimbly, Jr., P. C., G. L. Piper, E. M. Coombs, C. E. Turner, N. R. Spencer, L. V. Knutson (editors). 1996. Biological control of weeds in the west.
Whitson, R. D. (editor), L. C. Burrill, S. A. Dewey, D. W. Cudney, B. E. Nelson,
R. D. Lee and R. Parker. 1992. Weeds of the west. Western Soc. Weed Sci. and Western U. S. Land Grant Univer., Cooperative Extension Serv.
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