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Description
Hypericum Tetrapetalum, commonly known as the Four-petalled St John’s Wort, is a perennial plant that grows up to 1m tall. It is native to Europe and Asia and is known for its medicinal properties. The plant has a woody base, and its leaves are opposite, oval-shaped, and have small oil glands that give them a translucent appearance when held up to the light. The flowers of Hypericum Tetrapetalum are bright yellow, and they bloom from June to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eukaryota | Plantae | Spermatophyta | Magnoliopsida | Malpighiales | Hypericaceae | Hypericum |
Appearance
Hypericum Tetrapetalum has a bushy growth habit and produces numerous branches. The stems are green and become woody as the plant matures. The leaves are 3-5cm long and 1-2cm wide, and they are dark green in color. The bright yellow flowers are 2-3cm in diameter and have four petals. The plant produces small, black seed capsules that contain the plant’s seeds.
Care Guide
Hypericum Tetrapetalum is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly but should not be overwatered, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Hypericum Tetrapetalum is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hypericum Tetrapetalum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions. Spider mites and aphids can also infest the plant, leading to yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Hypericum Tetrapetalum is native to Europe and Asia and is found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, forests, and rocky areas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hypericum Tetrapetalum poisonous?
A: No, Hypericum Tetrapetalum is not poisonous, and its leaves and flowers are often used in herbal medicine.
Q: Can Hypericum Tetrapetalum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Hypericum Tetrapetalum can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should Hypericum Tetrapetalum be fertilized?
A: Hypericum Tetrapetalum should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the medicinal use of Hypericum Tetrapetalum?
A: Hypericum Tetrapetalum is used in herbal medicine to treat depression, anxiety, and nerve pain.
Related Plants
- Hypericum Androsaemum
- Hypericum Calycinum
- Hypericum Perforatum
- Hypericum Prolificum
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Hypericum tetrapetalum. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f575
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. (n.d.). Hypericum tetrapetalum Roxb. ex D. Don. Retrieved from http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:433697-1
- The Plant List. (2013). Hypericum tetrapetalum Roxb. ex D. Don. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2855402
