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Description
Hypericum Sphaerocarpum, also known as Round-fruited St. John’s Wort, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Hypericaceae. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The plant produces yellow flowers with five petals and numerous stamens. The flowers bloom in late spring and early summer, and they are followed by round, woody capsules that contain numerous seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Hypericum |
Appearance
Hypericum Sphaerocarpum has a bushy habit with numerous branches. Its leaves are oval-shaped, opposite, and can grow up to 3 inches long. The leaves are dark green with translucent dots that contain essential oils. The plant produces yellow flowers with five petals that measure approximately 1 inch in diameter. The flowers have numerous stamens that are arranged in three clusters. After flowering, the plant produces round, woody capsules that contain numerous seeds. The capsules can measure up to 0.5 inches in diameter and persist on the plant throughout the winter.
Care Guide
Hypericum Sphaerocarpum is relatively easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:
Water
Hypericum Sphaerocarpum prefers moist soil and requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Water the plant deeply once a week, and avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Hypericum Sphaerocarpum does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.
Soil
Hypericum Sphaerocarpum prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH is between 5.5 and 7.0.
Sunlight
Hypericum Sphaerocarpum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Hypericum Sphaerocarpum is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hypericum Sphaerocarpum is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, some common pests and diseases that can affect the plant include:
Pests
– Aphids- Spider mites- Whiteflies
Diseases
– Powdery mildew- Botrytis blight- Root rot
Habitat
Hypericum Sphaerocarpum is native to the eastern United States and can be found in open woods, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hypericum Sphaerocarpum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Hypericum Sphaerocarpum can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Hypericum Sphaerocarpum attract bees?
A: Yes, Hypericum Sphaerocarpum is attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I prune Hypericum Sphaerocarpum?
A: Hypericum Sphaerocarpum does not require frequent pruning. However, you can prune the plant in early spring to promote bushier growth and remove dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can Hypericum Sphaerocarpum be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Hypericum Sphaerocarpum can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in early summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Hypericum Sphaerocarpum:- Hypericum Calycinum- Hypericum Perforatum- Hypericum Androsaemum- Hypericum Kalmianum- Hypericum Frondosum
References
– “Hypericum sphaerocarpum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287053- “Round-fruited St. John’s Wort.” Illinois Wildflowers. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/grasses/plants/rou_stjohn.htm- “Hypericum sphaerocarpum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=HYSPE
