Perforate St. John's Wort
hypericum perfoliatum
Also known as: ["St. John's Wort","Tipton's Weed","Klamath Weed"]
Overview
A flowering plant in the Hypericaceae family, known for its yellow flowers and medicinal properties.
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 perfoliatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°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 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; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; provide dappled shade in extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in dark corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild heat but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent indoor temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; softwood cuttings root most readily.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rate.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; 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 perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds for heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or death; frost can severely damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover or move indoors; ensure good air circulation to prevent cold dampness.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may cause wilting or leaf drop.
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 active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset and photosensitivity if they ingest parts of Hypericum perfoliatum. The toxic compounds, particularly hypericin, can cause discomfort but are not usually life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Hypericum perfoliatum can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress and potential photosensitivity due to the presence of hypericin. The effects are typically not severe but warrant monitoring.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHypericum perfoliatum contains hypericin and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and photosensitivity when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to discomfort and temporary sensitivity to sunlight.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hypericum perfoliatum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the common uses of Hypericum perfoliatum?
A: It is used for medicinal purposes, particularly for its antidepressant properties.
Q: How should Hypericum perfoliatum be cared for?
A: It requires moderate maintenance, including well-drained soil and full sun exposure.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Hypericaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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