St. John's Wort

hypericum x

Also known as: ["Klamath weed","goat weed"]

Family: Hypericaceae Genus: Hypericum Category: Flowers

Overview

A genus of flowering plants in the family Hypericaceae, known for its medicinal properties and bright yellow flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Malpighiales
Family: Hypericaceae
Genus: Hypericum
Botanical Name: Hypericum x

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"-10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun with adequate water in cooler climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to direct sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near heat sources.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.

Temperature

Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; adjust care for seasonal changes.

Avoid drafts; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust watering with temperature changes.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Fertilize in spring/summer only; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings taken from new growth.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when growth is active.

Environment

High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (70–75°F).

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; avoid cutting into old wood.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure proper aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or chlorosis in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or damage if exposed to frost or prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, growth may stall, or plant may wilt if exposed to excessive heat without adequate water.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Hypericum x may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Hypericum x can result from water stress, either due to under or overwatering, or root damage, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Hypericum x may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Hypericum x is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset and phototoxic reactions if they ingest Hypericum x. The plant poses a low risk but should still be kept away from curious pets.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian for guidance.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Hypericum x can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress and potential phototoxicity. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy skin sensitivity to light
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent dogs from ingesting the plant. If ingestion occurs, monitor for symptoms and consult a veterinarian if necessary.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Hypericum x contains hypericin and other compounds that can cause phototoxicity and gastrointestinal upset when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally mild but can be more pronounced in sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation upon exposure to sunlight
🌿 Toxic Parts:
berries flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and limit skin contact, especially when exposed to sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Hypericum x toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: What are the common uses of Hypericum x?

A: It is used for medicinal purposes, particularly for its antidepressant properties.

Q: How often should Hypericum x be watered?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Quick Reference
Family: Hypericaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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