Puncturevine, a Nuisance Weed in Elmore County

Tribulus terrerstris L., more commonly known as puncturevine or goathead, is notorious for popping bicycle tires, getting stuck in pet’s feet, sticking in shoe soles and being a general nuisance. It is also poisonous to livestock, especially sheep when consumed in large quantities. This noxious weed is a prostrate, mat-forming, summer annual, broadleaf plant with an extensive root system and grows rapidly in disturbed areas, especially along road sides, abandoned lots or sidewalks. It has a woody taproot and grows from the crown of the plant. Stems are green to reddish-brown, abundant, pubescent and can grow up to six feet in length. The flowers are small and yellow with five petals. The seed is a woody burr with sharp spines. Each seed has two to four very sharp spines that are ¼” in length. The seed is extremely durable and can remain viable in the soil for many years. For the full story, pick up a copy of the Mountain Home News or click on this link to subscribe to the newspaper's online edition.