Also known as Bullhead · Burnut · Calthrop
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Puncturevine (Tribulus terrestris) is a sprawling, low-growing annual plant known for its sharp, spiny seed pods that easily puncture tires and feet.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Low
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Well-drained, sandy to loamy soils
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in warm to hot temperatures; typically grown as an annual.
Very Low
10% intensity
Requires minimal to no feeding; thrives in poor soils.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains saponins and alkaloids, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and liver damage in animals and humans. Spines can also cause physical injury.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Puncturevine is highly drought-tolerant once established. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in poorly draining soils.
Reduce watering significantly during cooler months or when the plant is dormant.
Pruning is typically not necessary for Puncturevine, as it's an annual or short-lived perennial often grown as an annual. If invasive growth or excessive ground cover is a concern, stems can be cut back to manage spread.
Remove any dead or damaged foliage to maintain tidiness.
Puncturevine is easily propagated by seeds. Sow seeds directly outdoors in spring after the last frost, or start them indoors a few weeks prior.
Scarification or stratification may improve germination rates for some seed sources. It readily self-seeds.
Repotting is generally not required for Puncturevine, as it is often grown as an annual and thrives in well-draining soil.
If grown in a container and it becomes root-bound, repot into a slightly larger container in spring. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Puncturevine (Tribulus terrestris)
Where Puncturevine (Tribulus terrestris) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Zygophyllales |
| Family | Zygophyllaceae |
| Genus | Tribulus |
| Species | Tribulus terrestris |
Similar in genus Tribulus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
