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Description
Hypericum Punctatum, commonly known as Spotted St. John’s Wort, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Hypericaceae family. This plant is native to North America and can be found in various regions such as the eastern United States, Quebec, and Ontario. It is known for its medicinal properties, including its anti-inflammatory and anti-depressant effects.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Hypericum |
Appearance
The Hypericum Punctatum plant can grow up to three feet tall and two feet wide. The leaves are opposite, oblong to lanceolate, and dotted with translucent glands. The flowers are yellow with five petals and numerous stamens, blooming from June to August. The plant produces small, black, and oval-shaped fruit capsules that contain numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Hypericum Punctatum is a relatively low maintenance plant. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly and make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Hypericum Punctatum can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hypericum Punctatum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to some fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Some common pests that can affect this plant include spider mites and aphids.
Habitat
Hypericum Punctatum grows in various habitats such as meadows, fields, woods, and along roadsides. It prefers moist to dry soils and can tolerate a range of soil types. This plant is commonly found in the eastern United States, Quebec, and Ontario.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hypericum Punctatum poisonous?
A: No, Hypericum Punctatum is not poisonous. However, it can cause skin irritation in some people.
Q: How do you propagate Hypericum Punctatum?
A: Hypericum Punctatum can be propagated through seeds or by division in the spring or fall.
Q: Can Hypericum Punctatum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Hypericum Punctatum can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth.
Q: How often should you prune Hypericum Punctatum?
A: Prune Hypericum Punctatum in early spring to remove dead or damaged growth and to shape the plant as desired.
Related Plants
- Hypericum Perforatum
- Hypericum Androsaemum
- Hypericum Calycinum
- Hypericum Kalmianum
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2019). Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press.
- Gleason, H. A., & Cronquist, A. (1991). Manual of vascular plants of northeastern United States and adjacent Canada. The New York Botanical Garden.
- USDA Plants Database. (2021). Hypericum punctatum Lam.
