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Description
Hypericum Tenuifolium, commonly known as the fine-leaved St. John’s Wort, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Hypericaceae family. It is native to New Zealand and can grow up to 1 meter tall. The plant has an upright growth habit and produces small yellow flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Hypericum |
Appearance
The fine-leaved St. John’s Wort has slender, narrow leaves that are approximately 5-10 mm long and 1-2 mm wide. The leaves are dark green in color and have a glossy texture. The plant produces small yellow flowers that are approximately 1 cm in diameter and have five petals. The flowers are followed by small, oval-shaped capsules that contain numerous tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Hypericum Tenuifolium prefers well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist. Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer to the soil at the beginning of the growing season. Repeat the application every four weeks during the growing season.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH level of 6.0-7.5 is ideal for the plant.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce flower production.
Hardiness Zones: Hypericum Tenuifolium is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The fine-leaved St. John’s Wort is generally a low-maintenance plant and is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can also infest the plant. Treat any pest infestations promptly with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Hypericum Tenuifolium is native to New Zealand and is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, shrublands, and grasslands. It grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hypericum Tenuifolium poisonous?
A: While the plant is not toxic to humans, it can be toxic to livestock if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can Hypericum Tenuifolium be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container allows for proper drainage.
Q: Can Hypericum Tenuifolium tolerate drought?
A: The plant prefers consistently moist soil and may not tolerate prolonged periods of drought.
Q: How often should Hypericum Tenuifolium be pruned?
A: The plant can be pruned in late winter or early spring to promote bushier growth and increase flower production.
Related Plants
- Hypericum Androsaemum
- Hypericum Calycinum
- Hypericum Hircinum
- Hypericum Moserianum
References
- “Hypericum Tenuifolium.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/hypericum-tenuifolium/
- “Hypericum Tenuifolium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280481&isprofile=0&basic=hypericum%20tenuifolium
- “Fine-leaved St. John’s Wort.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10627/hypericum-tenuifolium/details
