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Description
Hypericum Crux-Andreae, also known as St. Andrews Cross, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Hypericaceae family. This plant is native to Europe, Asia, and North America and can grow up to 2 feet tall. The blooms of Hypericum Crux-Andreae are bright yellow and have a unique cross shape in the center, which is how the plant got its common name. The leaves are small, narrow and oblong-shaped, with a waxy appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Hypericum |
Appearance
Hypericum Crux-Andreae has bright yellow flowers that bloom in mid-summer to early fall. The flowers have a unique cross shape in the center, which is where the plant got its common name. The leaves are small, narrow, and oblong-shaped, with a waxy appearance. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and has a bushy appearance. It is an excellent plant to add to garden borders and rock gardens.
Care Guide
To care for Hypericum Crux-Andreae, you need to provide it with the right conditions. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It can tolerate different soil types, but it prefers moist, acidic soil. Make sure to water the plant deeply once a week, and avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Fertilize the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring for optimal growth. Hypericum Crux-Andreae is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hypericum Crux-Andreae is generally pest and disease-resistant, but it can occasionally suffer from aphids, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also suffer from root rot if overwatered, so make sure to avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Hypericum Crux-Andreae is native to Europe, Asia, and North America and can be found growing in meadows, woodlands, and along roadsides. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate different soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hypericum Crux-Andreae invasive?
A: No, Hypericum Crux-Andreae is not an invasive plant.Q: Can Hypericum Crux-Andreae grow in containers?
A: Yes, Hypericum Crux-Andreae can grow in containers, as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage.Q: How often should I fertilize Hypericum Crux-Andreae?
A: Fertilize Hypericum Crux-Andreae with a slow-release fertilizer once in the spring.Q: Does Hypericum Crux-Andreae attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Hypericum Crux-Andreae attracts bees and butterflies with its bright yellow flowers.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Hypericum Crux-Andreae:
- Hypericum calycinum
- Hypericum perforatum
- Hypericum kalmianum
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. Hypericum Crux-Andreae. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286212&isprofile=0&
- RHS. Hypericum Crux-Andreae. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/4969/hypericum-crux-andreae/details
- Gardening Know How. St. Andrews Cross Plant Care: Tips For Growing Hypericum Crux-Andreae. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/st-andrews-cross/st-andrews-cross-plant-care.htm
