California caltrop (Kallstroemia californica)

Also known as: California caltrop

Kallstroemia californica, also known as California Caltrop, is a low-growing annual herb that forms dense, carpet-like mats. The plant features branching stems with compound leaves, each comprising several pairs of small, oval green leaflets spaced apart. Its flowers are solitary, showcasing five rounded or oval petals, accompanied by a cluster of ten stamens.

This species typically thrives in sandy and gravelly soils, often found in desert washes and disturbed areas of arid and semi-arid regions in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is well-suited to hot, dry environments.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of California caltrop

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10-30 cm

Spread

30-60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2-3 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of California caltrop

Quickly Identify California caltrop

Kallstroemia californica can be identified by its sprawling habit, reddish stems, pinnate leaves, and bright yellow flowers. The flowers usually have five petals and numerous stamens.

Scientific Classification of California caltrop

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Zygophyllales

Family

Creosote-bush

Genus

Kallstroemia

Species

California caltrop

Planting and Growing of California caltrop

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-86℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water California caltrop?

When it comes to watering Kallstroemia californica, aim to deliver about 250 ml once every watering session. The goal is to moisten the soil to a depth of about 2-3 inches, ensuring the roots have enough access to water without being waterlogged. Always check that the top inch of soil is dry before adding more water to avoid over-saturation.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered California caltrop? ›

What should I do if my California caltrop is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered California caltrop? ›

How to save an overwatered California caltrop? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for California caltrop?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Kallstroemia californica benefits from full sun exposure. Such conditions enhance its natural ability to blossom profusely and maintain dense foliage, contributing to a healthier plant.

How much sunlight should Kallstroemia californica receive? ›

What are possible solutions for providing ideal sunlight? ›

What benefits does it receive from ideal sunlight conditions? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for California caltrop?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 86℉

Kallstroemia californica, also known as California caltrop, thrives best within temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F. This range allows the plant to sustain optimal photosynthesis and respiration rates, which in turn supports its growth and blooming processes. Maintaining this temperature range ensures the plant can grow healthily and produce vibrant flowers.

What Soil is Best for California caltrop?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Kallstroemia californica thrives in well-draining soil as it prevents waterlogging, ensuring that the plant's roots do not suffocate. This characteristic promotes healthy root development, enabling the plant to absorb nutrients efficiently and maintain overall vitality. This plant does well in slightly acidic to neutral pH levels, ideally between 6.5 and 7.5. Such pH conditions facilitate optimal nutrient availability and uptake, which translates to healthier growth and vibrant foliage. While some plants require rich organic soils, Kallstroemia californica can manage with soils low in organic material, reducing the risk of over-fertilization and ensuring a natural growth pace that suits its native habitat.

How to Fertilize California caltrop?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Kallstroemia californica, commonly known as California caltrop, requires a balanced approach to fertilization. Utilize a diluted liquid fertilizer, aiming for a concentration of about 1/4th the recommended strength for flowering plants. This helps avoid nutrient burn and supports healthy growth. A typical amount would be around 5 milliliters of liquid fertilizer mixed with 1 liter of water.

How to Prune California caltrop?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. These are usually less vibrant in color and may show signs of wilting or fungal growth. Prune back to where the branch meets a healthy section. Trim away excess growth to maintain the desired shape of the plant. Typically, Kallstroemia californica has a sprawling growth habit, so consider training it by cutting back longer stems to encourage fuller growth and more blooms. After pruning, ensure the plant receives adequate water and sunlight. Apply a balanced fertilizer to encourage new growth and assist the plant in recovering from any stress caused by pruning. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate California caltrop plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Spring, Late spring

Fill seed trays with sterilized potting mix, ensuring an even surface for seed placement. The medium should be moistened lightly but not excessively damp to support germination.

Place the seeds evenly across the soil surface, pressing them gently into the potting mix. Ensure proper spacing to prevent overcrowding, which can hinder seedling development.

Cover seeds lightly with a thin layer of soil, and mist them gently. Place trays in a bright location but away from direct sunlight to prevent overheating and ensure consistent moisture levels during germination.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot California caltrop plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2 years

Repotting Kallstroemia californica should be done when the plant outgrows its current pot, which is typically after two years of growth. Signs that indicate a need for repotting include roots emerging from drainage holes and slow growth despite adequate care. Spring and early summer are the ideal times to repot, providing a growing season for the plant to acclimate and thrive in its new environment.

Selecting an appropriate pot for Kallstroemia californica involves choosing one slightly larger than the current pot to accommodate growth. Ensure it has good drainage to prevent root rot. Terracotta pots are an excellent choice as they are porous, promoting air circulation to roots, crucial for desert-adapted plants. This type also adds a rustic appeal to your plant display.

Utilize well-draining sandy soil that mimics the plant's natural habitat. This soil type prevents waterlogging and provides the necessary aeration. The incorporation of grit or perlite is advantageous, ensuring excess water drains effectively, thereby reducing the risk of root rot. This soil structure supports healthy root growth, essential for a thriving plant.

Toxicity

Ingestion

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.