Tribulus terrestris Seeds | Puncture Vine
LATIN NAME: Tribulus terrestris
COMMON NAME: Puncture Vine
Plant Profile
Known to gardeners as Puncture Vine, Tribulus terrestris is a vine. Plant has a long and careful record in traditional practice of region, and it is a fine, hardy, easy plant of dry, sunny garden. It is a plant of warm, open, well-drained ground. Its appeal to pollinating insects adds a second, ecological layer to its ornamental one. Together these qualities explain its long-standing appeal to gardeners.
Science & Biotechnology
Tribulus terrestris sits in the Tribulus group, a group that keeps botanists, horticulturists and plant breeders busy with questions of classification, adaptation and ornamental potential. Puncture vine has a strong and well-documented place in plant science, and plant has been studied for a long time for its record in traditional practice of the region. The upshot for anyone sowing it is reassurance — cultivated stock of this plant has a long, well-documented track record.
Uses & Benefits
Puncture Vine brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. Puncture vine is grown for small, bright-yellow flowers and curious, spiny fruits. Plant has a long and careful record in traditional practice of region, and it has been written up in botanical and herbal papers for its long history of use. A plant that has settled in will get along with only routine care.
Tribulus fruit, Bai Ji Li, is a Chinese herb for liver and eyes, and its steroidal saponins made it a global sports supplement; the evidence for testosterone effects is weaker than the marketing, an honest note worth knowing.
Growing from Seed
Sow fresh seed of Puncture Vine under ordinary good conditions. Surface-sow onto a light, well-drained compost, dust over a thin covering, and keep evenly moist and sunny until the seedlings show. Grow the youngsters on steadily in pots until well rooted, then move them to their final positions.
Our Take
Puncture Vine settles in quickly once it finds its footing. Start with fresh seed, keep it evenly moist, and the plant does the rest itself.
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