Puncturevine
Tribulus terrestris
Colorado List C - Control recommended
General
- Annual
- Introduced from Europe, Asia and Africa
- Caltrop family (Zygophyllaceae)
Common Names
Habitat
- Found in pastures, open areas, roadsides and disturbed areas
Plant
Vegetation
- Plants are prostrate
- Leaves opposite, pinnately compound
- Leaflets paires, 1/4 inch long
- Mature plants up to 4 feet wide
Roots
Flower
- Season: July to October
- Single in leaf axils
- Yellow, 5-petaled
Seed
- Remain dormant for 5 years or more
- Germinates in spring through summer
- Spiny burs that contain 2-4 seeds. Tough seedcoat
- May damage tires, easily attach to equipment, clothing, and fur
Reproduction
Control
Biological
Chemical
Cultural
- Prevention - maintain health of site
- Removal - bag and dispose of plants if seeds have started to develop
Mechanical
- Burning - N/A
- Grazing - N/A
- Mowing - N/A
Use all chemicals according to the manufacturer's label. No specific recommendation or endorsement is made or implied by listing methods