Hypericum perforatum aka Saint John's Wort

Taxonomy

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's wort, is a flowering plant in the Hypericaceae family and the primary species in the Hypericum genus. It is a perennial plant with small, ovate leaves and clusters of star-shaped yellow flowers measuring 1.5cm across. Native to temperate regions of Eurasia, it has also been introduced as an invasive weed in various parts of North and South America, South Africa, and Australia. It is believed to be a hybrid between H. maculatum and H. attenuatum. While it is harmful to livestock and can interact negatively with prescription drugs, it has a long history of traditional use in folk medicine and is still cultivated commercially today. The plant contains a phytochemical called hyperforin, which is currently being studied for its potential therapeutic properties. Additionally, H. perforatum is considered a weed in some of its native countries, including Turkey, Italy, France, Hungary, and Sweden, where it primarily infests poorer pastures, neglected areas, and occasionally crops. It has also become a significant invasive problem in countries such as Canada, the United States, Mexico, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, Reunion, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Hawaii. This invasive species spreads vegetatively and is challenging to control without causing damage to other pasture species. It is not only invasive in agricultural land but also in natural ecosystems. Despite its invasive nature, the plant has been intentionally spread to various locations as a useful medicinal or ornamental plant and unintentionally as a hitchhiker on agricultural produce.

Common names

Saint John's Wort, St. John's Wort, Perforate St John's Wort

How to care for Saint John's Wort

Difficulty

Caring for Saint John's Wort is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

Saint John's Wort should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Saint John's Wort loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Saint John's Wort requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your St. John's Wort is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

Saint John's Wort is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.

Fertilizer

The Saint John's Wort is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.

Region of origin

Saint John's Wort’s native range is Europe, including Britain, south and east to N. Africa, the Azores, Madeira and W. Asia.


More info:
Wikipedia