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Description
Hypericum Montanum is a flowering plant belonging to the family Hypericaceae. It is commonly known as the mountain St. John’s Wort or the creeping St. John’s Wort. The plant is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found growing in meadows, forests, and rocky areas. The plant has been used for its medicinal properties since ancient times and has been known to treat disorders such as depression, anxiety, and nerve pain.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Hypericum |
Appearance
The Hypericum Montanum plant grows up to 30cm tall and spreads outwards, forming a dense mat of foliage. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and are a bright green color. The flowers are yellow and star-shaped, with five petals and numerous stamens. The plant blooms from June to August and produces small, round fruits that turn red when ripe.
Care Guide
Hypericum Montanum is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to ensure that your plant thrives:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater. The plant prefers well-draining soil, and too much water can result in root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If planting in a container, use a potting mix that drains well.
- Sunlight: Hypericum Montanum prefers full sun to partial shade. Ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hypericum Montanum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, some common pests and diseases that can affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These insects can cause damage by sucking the sap from the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots to appear on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide spray.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot in the plant. Ensure that the soil is well-draining, and do not overwater.
Habitat
Hypericum Montanum is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found growing in meadows, forests, and rocky areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in zones 5-9.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hypericum Montanum a perennial plant?
A: Yes, Hypericum Montanum is a perennial plant.
Q: Can Hypericum Montanum be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Hypericum Montanum can be grown in a container. Ensure that the potting mix is well-draining and that the plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Q: Does Hypericum Montanum require a lot of water?
A: No, Hypericum Montanum does not require a lot of water. Water the plant regularly, but do not overwater.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Hypericum Montanum?
A: The best time to fertilize Hypericum Montanum is in the spring, once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Hypericum Androsaemum
- Hypericum Perforatum
- Hypericum Kalmianum
- Hypericum Hidcoteense
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Hypericum montanum. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b829
- RHS. (n.d.). Hypericum montanum. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/5475/hypericum-montanum/details
- University of Maryland Medical Center. (2015). St. John’s Wort. Retrieved from https://www.umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/st-johns-wort
