St. John's Wort
hypericum patulum
Also known as: ["Rose of Sharon","Patulum St. John's Wort"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub with bright yellow flowers and medicinal properties, native to Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Hypericaceae |
| Genus: | Hypericum |
| Botanical Name: | Hypericum patulum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, immediately after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; place near south-facing window for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in late fall to allow the plant to rest; use a slow-release fertilizer for convenience.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 8–12 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity until roots form.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to a healthy bud or lateral branch; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased wood; best done after flowering to avoid cutting off next year's buds.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; 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; water until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback; frost can be fatal.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move potted plants indoors during cold spells; ensure good air circulation to prevent cold dampness.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Hypericum patulum may experience mild gastrointestinal upset and photosensitivity. The compounds in the plant can cause discomfort but are not typically life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Hypericum patulum by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress and potential photosensitivity. The effects are typically not severe but should be monitored.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHypericum patulum contains hypericin and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and photosensitivity when ingested. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hypericum patulum toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should Hypericum patulum be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Hypericum patulum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Hypericaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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