Weed of the Week
September 18th 2006
Puncturevine, Tribulus terrestris L. Also known as Goathead thorn, Mexican Sandbur or Texas Sandbur
Characteristics:
Family: Zygophyllaceae (Caltrop Family)
Origin: Southern Europe
Description:
- Mat type plant, prostrate with radial trailing stems
- Sharp burs spread easily by penetrating tires or shoe treads which are transported to and dropped off at other sites
- Annual, reproduces by seeds
Stems:
- Stems radiate outward to 5 feet
- May be slightly hairy, leaving approximately one inch between leaflets
Flowers:
- Small and yellow having 5 petals. Born in axils (where leaf attaches to stem)
- Blooms July through October (later than most weeds)
- Fruits of the flower form into a 5 part seed capsule. Each part breaks away as an individual sharp bur containing 2-4 seeds
- Seeds can remain dormant in the soil for 4 or 5 years before germinating
Leaves:
- Pinnately compound (multiple leaves arising along both sides of the axis)
- Hairs present on oval leaflets
- 4-8 leaves per leaflet are 1/4-1/2 inch long.
Location:
Puncture is considered a list C state noxious weed. It is commonly found in pastures, waste areas and along roads. It harms livestock, domestic pets and barefoot hikers. It may stick to shoes, tires, clothing and hitch rides to new sites ripe for infestation. Check for and remove any burs before moving to other areas.
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