Tutsan
hypericum androsaemum
Also known as: ["St. John's Wort","Winter's Bark"]
Overview
A deciduous or semi-evergreen shrub with clusters of yellow flowers followed by reddish berries that mature to black.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Hypericaceae |
| Genus: | Hypericum |
| Botanical Name: | Hypericum androsaemum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: garden beds or containers in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates sandy or clay soils if amended.
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 the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; provide dappled shade during peak summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend heavy soils; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–8; tolerates temperatures between -20°F and 90°F; prefers moderate temperatures in spring and fall.
Protect from frost in winter; provide shade in summer; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize once in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength if needed; stop fertilizing in late summer.
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 new growth is vigorous.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, peat-based mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity around cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to healthy buds or lateral branches; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger stems), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead or diseased wood; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; prune roots if crowded; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure; mix in perlite or sand for drainage in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning edges in extreme heat or cold; stunted growth or failure to flower in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage in hard freezes.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; cover plants during frost events; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid late-season fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer or fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to mild toxicity from Hypericum androsaemum berries, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and photosensitivity. The berries should be kept away from cats to prevent accidental ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Hypericum androsaemum berries can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress and potential photosensitivity. The berries contain compounds that may cause discomfort if consumed in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHypericum androsaemum, commonly known as Tutsan, contains hypericins and other bioactive compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and photodermatitis upon ingestion. The berries are the most toxic part of the plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hypericum androsaemum toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Tutsan attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How should I care for Hypericum androsaemum?
A: It prefers partial shade, well-drained soil, and moderate watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Hypericaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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