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Description
Hypericum Nummularium, commonly known as Creeping St. John’s Wort, is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Hypericaceae family. This plant is native to Europe and Asia, but it can be found growing in many other parts of the world as well. The plant is named for its bright yellow flowers, which resemble the sun and are said to have a healing effect.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Hypericum |
Appearance
The Hypericum Nummularium plant features glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and arranged opposite each other on the stem. The leaves have a smooth texture and are about 1-2cm long. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that bloom from June to September. The flowers are about 2cm in diameter and have five petals with numerous stamens. The plant can grow up to 30cm tall and 60cm wide, making it an excellent groundcover.
Care Guide
Hypericum Nummularium is a low-maintenance plant and requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil, so make sure not to overwater it. Water it once a week or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.
- Soil: This plant prefers slightly acidic soil with good drainage. Plant it in a location with well-draining soil, or amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Hypericum Nummularium prefers full sun to partial shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hypericum Nummularium is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be affected by a few common problems:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant’s sap and can cause the leaves to curl and turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Rust: This fungal disease causes orange or yellow spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control the disease.
- Leaf spot: This bacterial disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a copper-based fungicide to control the disease.
Habitat
Hypericum Nummularium is native to Europe and Asia, but it can be found growing in many other parts of the world as well. This plant prefers well-draining soil and can grow in a variety of habitats, including meadows, grasslands, and rocky areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hypericum Nummularium toxic to pets?
A: Yes, this plant is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of cats and dogs.
Q: Can Hypericum Nummularium grow in shade?
A: Yes, this plant can grow in partial shade, but it prefers full sun.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Hypericum Nummularium?
A: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, and then again in the summer if necessary.
Q: Can I propagate Hypericum Nummularium?
A: Yes, you can propagate this plant by taking cuttings in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Hypericum Perforatum (St. John’s Wort)
- Hypericum Androsaemum (Tutsan)
- Hypericum Hidcoteense (Hidcote St. John’s Wort)
References
- “Hypericum Nummularium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 19, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286294&isprofile=0&basic=Hypericum%20nummularium.
- “Hypericum Nummularium – Plant Finder.” The Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed October 19, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18310/Hypericum-nummularium/Details.
- “Creeping St. John’s Wort.” Fine Gardening. Accessed October 19, 2021. https://www.finegardening.com/plant/creeping-st-johns-wort-hypericum-nummularium.
