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.
British Columbia 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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