Contents
Description
Hypericum Scouleri, commonly known as Scouler’s St. Johnswort, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Hypericaceae family. It is native to western North America and can be found from Alaska to California. This plant is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. Scouler’s St. Johnswort blooms in mid to late summer and produces vibrant yellow flowers that are 1 to 2 inches in diameter. The leaves of this plant are opposite, simple, and elliptic in shape. They are dark green in color and have a smooth texture.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Hypericum |
Appearance
Scouler’s St. Johnswort is a stunning plant with vibrant yellow flowers that bloom in mid to late summer. The flowers are 1 to 2 inches in diameter and have five petals. The leaves are opposite, simple, and elliptic in shape. They are dark green in color and have a smooth texture. This deciduous shrub can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. It has a dense and bushy habit and produces many branches that are covered in leaves and flowers.
Care Guide
Scouler’s St. Johnswort is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: This plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate dry conditions. Water regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater.
- Fertilization: Feed your plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing in late fall and winter.
- Soil: Scouler’s St. Johnswort grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade but may produce fewer flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Scouler’s St. Johnswort is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scouler’s St. Johnswort is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common problems that may affect your plant:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause distorted growth. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. Improve drainage and reduce watering to prevent root rot.
Habitat
Scouler’s St. Johnswort is native to western North America and can be found from Alaska to California. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and rocky slopes. This plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate dry conditions. It is adapted to cold climates and can survive harsh winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Scouler’s St. Johnswort be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Scouler’s St. Johnswort can be grown in containers. Use a well-draining potting mix and make sure the container has drainage holes.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Scouler’s St. Johnswort?
A: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Scouler’s St. Johnswort attract bees?
A: Yes, Scouler’s St. Johnswort is a great plant for attracting bees and other pollinators.
Q: Can Scouler’s St. Johnswort be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Scouler’s St. Johnswort can be propagated from softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Related Plants
- Hypericum perforatum
- Hypericum calycinum
- Hypericum androsaemum
- Hypericum kalmianum
References
- Arno, S. F., & Hammerly, R. P. (2007). Timberline: Mountain and Arctic Forest Frontiers. The Mountaineers Books.
- Dirr, M. A., & Heuser, C. W. (2006). The Reference Manual of Woody Plant Propagation: From Seed to Tissue Culture. Timber Press.
- USDA. (2021). PLANTS Database. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home.html
