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Description
Hypericum Patulum, commonly known as Spreading St. John’s Wort, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Hypericaceae family. It is native to China and Japan and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom from July to September and has a woody stem that can grow up to 2m tall. Hypericum Patulum is known for its medicinal properties and is used to treat a variety of ailments, including depression, anxiety, and nerve pain.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Hypericum |
Appearance
Hypericum Patulum has lance-shaped leaves that are green on the upper surface and pale green on the lower surface. The leaves grow up to 10cm long and 2cm wide and are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that have five petals and are 2-3cm in diameter. The flowers are followed by seed capsules that contain numerous small black seeds.
Care Guide
Hypericum Patulum is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Grow the plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Hypericum Patulum prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hypericum Patulum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent pest and disease infestations, keep the plant healthy and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Hypericum Patulum is native to China and Japan and is widely cultivated in gardens and parks throughout the world. The plant grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, forests, and hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hypericum Patulum a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Hypericum Patulum is known for its medicinal properties and is used to treat a variety of ailments, including depression, anxiety, and nerve pain.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Hypericum Patulum?
A: Hypericum Patulum is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Q: What is the best soil for Hypericum Patulum?
A: Hypericum Patulum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: How often should I fertilize Hypericum Patulum?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Hypericum Androsaemum
- Hypericum Calycinum
- Hypericum Perforatum
- Hypericum Moserianum
References
- “Hypericum Patulum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 Oct. 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286044&isprofile=0&=&p=1>.
- “Hypericum Patulum.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 20 Oct. 2021. <http://pza.sanbi.org/hypericum-patulum>.
- “Hypericum Patulum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 20 Oct. 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/20790/i-Hypericum-patulum-i/Details>.
