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Description
Hypericum Hircinum, commonly known as Hairy St. John’s Wort, is a flowering plant belonging to the family Hypericaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia and can be found in damp meadows, riverbanks, and woodland edges. The plant grows up to a height of 60-80 cm and has hairy stems with lance-shaped leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Hypericum |
Appearance
The plant produces bright yellow flowers with five petals that measure up to 3 cm in diameter. The flowers bloom from June to August and are followed by round, brown capsules containing numerous tiny seeds. The stems of the plant are covered with fine, white hairs, and the leaves are opposite, narrow, and pointed. The plant has a bushy habit and can spread up to 80 cm in width.
Care Guide
Hypericum Hircinum prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, but it grows best in a fertile, humus-rich soil. It is essential to water the plant regularly during dry spells, and feed it with a balanced fertilizer in early spring. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9 and can withstand temperatures as low as -15°C.
Common Pests & Diseases
The plant is susceptible to fungal diseases, including powdery mildew and leaf spot. It can also be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. To prevent these pests and diseases, it is essential to maintain good hygiene practices and promptly remove any infected or damaged plant parts.
Habitat
Hypericum Hircinum is native to Asia and Europe and can be found in damp meadows, woodland edges, and riverbanks. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Hypericum Hircinum poisonous to humans?
A: No, Hypericum Hircinum is not toxic to humans, but it can cause skin irritation in some individuals.
Q: Can Hypericum Hircinum grow in a container?
A: Yes, Hypericum Hircinum can be grown in a container, but it requires regular watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should I prune Hypericum Hircinum?
A: Pruning should be done in early spring, and any dead or damaged branches should be removed. It is not necessary to prune the plant regularly.
Q: Does Hypericum Hircinum attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Hypericum Hircinum is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its bright yellow flowers.
Related Plants
- Hypericum Androsaemum
- Hypericum Calycinum
- Hypericum Perforatum
- Hypericum Chinense
References
- “Hypericum hircinum.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 19 July 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287383&isprofile=1&basic=hypericum%20hircinum
- “Hypericum hircinum.” RHS. Accessed 19 July 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/13521/Hypericum-hircinum/Details
- “Hairy St John’s Wort (Hypericum hircinum).” Woodland Trust. Accessed 19 July 2021. https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/wild-flowers/hairy-st-johns-wort/
