Tribulus terrestris Caltrop (Zygophyllaceae)

Browse Plants Articles

Power Search!

Browse Botanic Names

Sponsored By KhorWills

Tribulus terrestris
Caltrop
(1 Page of 5)

The Tribulus terrestris plant species is found in Europe - N. France and eastwards to E. Asia. It is a member of the Zygophyllaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Caltrop.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Tribulus terrestris
Common Name:  Caltrop
Family:  Zygophyllaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  0.6   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Dry open habitats, often as a weed in Europe[50]. Sandy seashores in Japan[58].

Cultivation Notes: We have very little information on this species and are not sure how successful it will be in Britain. There are conflicting reports on its hardyness - according to one report it is native to N. France which should make it hardy in Britain[50] whilst another report says that it is only hardy in zone 10 which means that it is not frost tolerant[200]. We would suggest treating it as a frost tender annual and then experimenting with its hardyness. It is likely to require a well-drained dry to moist soil and is also likely to be tolerant of maritime exposure. The plant is very fast growing from seed[50]. A good bee plant[156].

For further Tribulus terrestris gardening information
click on one of the blue links below

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
View their bibliography
Useful Edible Plants Future