Invasive Species: Puncturevine

Tribulus terrestris

A native of the Mediterranean region, puncturevine has been in the PNW since 1924 and is a nuisance in gravel parking lots, along roadways, and in irrigated vegetable crops.

Why is it important to control?

Puncturevine forms dense mats and its spined seeds can easily puncture bicycle tires or light footwear.

Image of puncturevine growing along ground with single, yellow flower.

How can you identify it?

Close up image of puncturevine's yellow flowerClose up image of puncturevine's thorny fruit
Habitat: Gravel parking lots, along roads, pastures, cultivated cropland.
Life Cycle: Annual
Height: Up to 6 feet long.
Leaf Description: Grow opposite with several pairs of hairy leaflets.
Fruit & Flower Description: Small, yellow flowers with five petals. Fruit has sharp rigid spines.
Bloom Time: April to October

How do you control it?

  • Hand pull before plants have begun to produce seeds in April.

  • Place in a tied plastic bag and put in trash, not yard waste or compost.

  • See the PNW Pest Management Handbook for chemical control. FOLLOW ALL LABEL DIRECTIONS!

  • Oregon Department of Agriculture has two biocontrol agents, a seed weevil and a stem weevil. Both are established.

How to Report it?

There are various ways you can report this noxious weed.

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