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Description
Hypericum Ellipticum, commonly known as Blue Ridge St. John’s Wort, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Hypericaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and can grow up to 2-3 feet tall. This plant blooms during the summer months, producing yellow flowers with five petals, and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Hypericum |
Appearance
The leaves of Hypericum Ellipticum are elliptical and can grow up to 3 inches long. They are dark green in color and have a smooth texture. The stems are woody and can range from green to reddish-brown. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that can measure up to an inch in diameter. Each flower has five petals and a cluster of yellow stamens in the center.
Care Guide
Hypericum Ellipticum is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate some drought. Water the plant regularly, but make sure not to overwater it.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Hypericum Ellipticum prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hypericum Ellipticum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Here are some common pests and diseases that may affect the plant:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause damage.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi that thrive in wet soil.
Habitat
Hypericum Ellipticum is native to the southeastern United States, where it can be found growing in open woods, meadows, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate some drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hypericum Ellipticum toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant can be toxic to pets if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can Hypericum Ellipticum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but make sure to choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Hypericum Ellipticum?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Hypericum Ellipticum?
A: The plant can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the summer and rooting them in moist soil.
Related Plants
- Hypericum Androsaemum
- Hypericum Perforatum
- Hypericum Chinense
References
- “Hypericum ellipticum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287184.
- “Hypericum ellipticum.” North Carolina State University. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/hypericum-ellipticum/.
- “Hypericum ellipticum.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/grow-hypericum-ellipticum-plants-3269212.
