Spotted St. John's wort (Hypericum punctatum)

Spotted St. John's wort

Spotted St. John's wort (Hypericum punctatum) is a plant species that is native to the American midwest and Canada. This species grows in floodplains, roadsides, moist fields, and thickets. Its common name comes from medieval European celebrations of a feast day honoring the Catholic Saint John.

Scientific classification

Species

Spotted St. John's wort (Hypericum punctatum)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

30 cm to 91 cm

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

1.3 cm

Flower Size

Yellow

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Spotted St. John's wort

Attributes of Spotted St. John's wort

Growth Rate

Throughout spotted St. John's wort's active summer growth season, it displays a moderate growth rate, signified by steady increases in height and incremental leaf production. This measured development often fosters fuller foliage distribution and allows for consistent flowering across the season, enhancing its ornamental appeal. However, growth may exhibit slight variations in rate across other seasons, though summer remains its chief growing period.

Distribution of Spotted St. John's wort

Distribution Map

Spotted St. John's wort is primarily native to North America, specifically originating from the eastern regions of the continent. Over time, the plant has expanded its range beyond these native areas, often through unintentional human introduction and naturalization in various temperate zones across the globe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Floodplains, Roadsides, Moist fields, Thickets

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Toxicity

People, cats, and dogs can be poisoned by ingesting or contacting spotted St. John's wort due to the toxic agent hypericin in the leaves and sap. Symptoms include skin irritation, photosensitivity, and gastrointestinal issues. Immediate veterinary care is crucial for pets showing signs of poisoning. Moderate toxicity risk requires close monitoring to prevent adverse health effects. Any contact with spotted St. John's wort should prompt immediate action.

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Care Guide for Spotted St. John's wort

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from moist environments, spotted St. John's wort thrives with consistent moisture. Ideal watering is weekly, although it can withstand short dry spells. Primarily found outdoors, spotted St. John's wort benefits from natural rainfall, which supports its health and seasonal growth cycles.

Fertilize: For spotted St. John's wort, use balanced nutrition fertilizers in spring and late summer at half strength to encourage growth and flowering. Reduce feeding as autumn nears and apply to moist soil to enhance nutrient absorption, ensuring optimal health and natural vigor for spotted St. John's wort.

Pruning: Spotted St. John's wort features yellow flowers and medicinal properties. Pruning in early to late spring enhances growth and blooms. Annually prune back by one-third to maintain size and promote health. This practice reduces disease risk, encourages a compact shape, and improves air circulation for prolific flowering.

Propagation: Spotted St. John's wort is a perennial herb with yellow flowers and dark-spotted leaves. For optimal growth, surface-sow seeds on well-draining medium, maintain consistent moisture, and transplant seedlings to sunny or partially shaded areas, ensuring ample space for air circulation.

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Images of Spotted St. John's wort

Attributes of Spotted St. John's wort

Distribution of Spotted St. John's wort

Toxicity

Care Guide for Spotted St. John's wort

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