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Description
Hypericum Hirsutum, also known as Hairy St. John’s Wort, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Hypericaceae family. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, but has been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has yellow flowers that bloom from June to August. It is commonly found in meadows, pastures, and forest edges.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Hypericum |
Appearance
The leaves of Hypericum Hirsutum are opposite, oval-shaped, and covered with tiny hairs, giving them a grayish-green color. The plant’s stem is also hairy, and it may produce multiple branches. The flowers are bright yellow, with five petals and numerous stamens. They grow in clusters at the top of the stem and can reach up to 5 cm in diameter. After blooming, the plant produces small, brownish-red fruits that contain numerous tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Hypericum Hirsutum is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips to care for this plant:
Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is kept evenly moist. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells.
Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth.
Soil: The plant grows well in a variety of soils, including loamy, gravelly, and sandy soils. The soil should be well-draining and nutrient-rich.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but may not bloom as profusely.
Hardiness Zones: Hypericum Hirsutum can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hypericum Hirsutum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or powdery mildew. These can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot may occur if the soil is too wet or poorly draining.
Habitat
Hypericum Hirsutum is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, where it grows in meadows, pastures, and forest edges. It has also been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant, and can be found in gardens and naturalized areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hypericum Hirsutum poisonous?
A: While Hypericum Hirsutum is not generally considered poisonous, it may cause skin irritation or digestive upset if ingested.
Q: How often should I water my Hypericum Hirsutum plant?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: Can Hypericum Hirsutum grow in containers?
A: While Hypericum Hirsutum can grow in containers, it may require frequent watering and fertilization to thrive.
Q: How do I propagate Hypericum Hirsutum?
A: Hypericum Hirsutum can be propagated by seed or by taking stem cuttings in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Hypericum perforatum (Common St. John’s Wort)
- Hypericum androsaemum (Tutsan)
- Hypericum calycinum (Rose of Sharon)
- Hypericum frondosum (Golden St. John’s Wort)
References
- “Hypericum Hirsutum L.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, 2021.
- “Hypericum Hirsutum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021.
- “Hypericum Hirsutum.” Royal Horticultural Society, 2021.
