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Description
Hypericum Japonicum, also known as Japanese St. John’s Wort or Aaron’s Beard, is a deciduous shrub that is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It belongs to the family Hypericaceae and is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive flowers and foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Hypericum |
Appearance
Hypericum Japonicum can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. It has a dense, rounded habit and features small, ovate leaves that are dark green in color. The plant produces bright yellow, five-petaled flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The flowers are followed by small, brown capsules that contain seeds.
Care Guide
Hypericum Japonicum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Hypericum Japonicum prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hypericum Japonicum is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation. Common pests include spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Hypericum Japonicum is native to Japan, Korea, and China. It grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and rocky slopes. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hypericum Japonicum poisonous?
A: Hypericum Japonicum is not known to be poisonous, but it should not be ingested as it can cause stomach upset.
Q: How often should I prune Hypericum Japonicum?
A: Prune in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired.
Q: Can I grow Hypericum Japonicum in a container?
A: Yes, Hypericum Japonicum can be grown in a container. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant and use well-draining soil. Water regularly and fertilize as needed.
Q: How long do the flowers of Hypericum Japonicum last?
A: The flowers of Hypericum Japonicum can last for several weeks.
Related Plants
- Hypericum Calycinum
- Hypericum Perforatum
- Hypericum Kalmianum
- Hypericum Androsaemum
References
- “Hypericum Japonicum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c609
- “Hypericum Japonicum.” North Carolina State University. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/hypericum-japonicum/
- “Hypericum Japonicum.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/11490/Hypericum-japonicum/Details
