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Description
Spiraea Hypericifolia, commonly known as the St. John’s wort spirea, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is native to the Eastern United States and can grow up to 3 feet tall and 4 feet wide. It blooms in late spring to early summer, producing clusters of small white flowers that cover the entire plant. The flowers are followed by small brown fruits that are not particularly showy. The leaves of Spiraea Hypericifolia are oval-shaped, serrated, and a deep green color that turns to a reddish-orange hue in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Spiraea |
Appearance
Spiraea Hypericifolia is a compact shrub with a rounded shape. Its branches are thin and twiggy, and the bark is a reddish-brown color. The leaves are alternate, simple, and have a serrated margin. They are about 1-2 inches long and ovate in shape. The flowers are small, white, and appear in dense clusters at the end of the branches. They have five petals and a yellow center that turns to a reddish-brown color as the plant ages. The fruit of this plant is a small, brown capsule that contains a few seeds.
Care Guide
Spiraea Hypericifolia is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep it healthy:
- Water: Water regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade. This plant can tolerate some shade, but it will bloom better in full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Spiraea Hypericifolia is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Spiraea Hypericifolia is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and curl. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and speckled. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating to appear on the leaves. It is often caused by too much humidity or poor air circulation. Use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.
Habitat
Spiraea Hypericifolia is native to the eastern United States and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Spiraea Hypericifolia deer resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is relatively deer resistant.
Q: Can Spiraea Hypericifolia be used as a hedge?
A: Yes, this plant can be used as a low hedge.
Q: Does Spiraea Hypericifolia attract pollinators?
A: Yes, this plant is attractive to bees and butterflies.
Q: When is the best time to prune Spiraea Hypericifolia?
A: Prune in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Spiraea Japonica
- Spiraea Vanhouttei
- Spiraea Thunbergii
References
- “Spiraea Hypericifolia (St. John’s Wort Spirea).” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279460.
- “Spiraea Hypericifolia.” NC State Extension, North Carolina State University, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/spiraea-hypericifolia/.
- “Spiraea Hypericifolia.” The Spruce, Dotdash, www.thespruce.com/growing-and-caring-for-spiraea-shrubs-3269308.
