Forrest's St. John's Wort Hypericum forrestii

Names

• Family

  Hypericaceae

• Synonyms

  Forrest's St. John's Wort, Forrest's Tutsan

• Common names

  Hypericum patulum var. forrestii.

Toxicity

• To humans

  Hypericum forrestii, commonly known as St. John's Wort, is not typically considered highly toxic to humans when touched or ingested in small quantities. However, in some individuals, it can cause adverse effects if consumed in significant amounts or if they have particular sensitivities. Symptoms of St. John's Wort poisoning may include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as confusion and dizziness. In extreme cases, it can lead to photosensitivity, resulting in skin irritation and increased susceptibility to sunburn when exposed to sunlight.

• To pets

  Hypericum forrestii, commonly known as St. John's Wort, can be toxic to pets, most notably dogs and cats, if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include skin irritation, particularly after sun exposure due to photosensitizing compounds in the plant. If consumed in large quantities, it can also cause gastrointestinal upset, manifesting as vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, ingestion of St. John's Wort may result in more serious symptoms such as damage to the nervous system, leading to lethargy, incoordination, and potentially seizures. It is important to keep pets away from the plant and to contact a veterinarian if you suspect they have consumed any part of it.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Evergreen

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Yellow

• Height

  2 feet (0.61 meters)

• Spread

  2 feet (0.61 meters)

• Plant type

  Shrub

• Hardiness zones

  7

• Native area

  China

General Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: Hypericum forrestii, commonly known as St. John's Wort, adds a decorative element to gardens with its bright yellow flowers and attractive, bushy form.
• Low Maintenance: St. John's Wort is known for its low maintenance requirements, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
• Drought Tolerance: This plant is relatively drought-tolerant, which can reduce the need for frequent watering once established.
• Wildlife Attraction: The bright flowers of St. John's Wort attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
• Erosion Control: Its dense growth habit can help stabilize soil in areas prone to erosion.
• Year-Round Interest: With flowers in the summer and persistent fruits or seed capsules, St. John's Wort provides visual interest throughout multiple seasons.
• Landscape Versatility: It can be used in various landscape settings including borders, rock gardens, and as ground cover.
• Hardiness: It's generally hardy and can withstand a variety of climatic conditions, making it suitable for multiple gardening zones.

Medical Properties

This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Hypericum forrestii, commonly known as St. John's Wort, can be infused in oil to create a natural wood stain that gives a warm, reddish glow to wooden furniture.
• The bright yellow flowers of St. John's Wort can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, providing shades of yellow to orange depending on the mordant used.
• The plant's dense growth habit makes it suitable as a low hedge in landscaping, offering structure and color in garden design.
• The attractive berries of St. John's Wort can be used for decorative purposes in floral arrangements and wreath-making during the autumn season.
• The aromatic quality of the leaves can be exploited by using them in potpourri mixes to impart a subtle, herbaceous fragrance to the home.
• Because of its dense and bushy form, St. John's Wort can be planted to provide erosion control on slopes and prevent soil degradation.
• The plant's ability to thrive in poor soil conditions makes it ideal for reclaiming and revitalizing disturbed lands, such as former mining sites.
• Often used in xeriscaping, St. John's Wort is drought-tolerant and ideal for water-conserving gardens.
• The flowers can be used to create a natural insect repellent by crushing the petals to release the oils that some insects may find unattractive.
• In craft activities, the leaves and flowers of St. John's Wort can be pressed and included in homemade paper for a decorative touch.

Feng Shui

The St. John's Wort is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The St. John's Wort is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Protection: Hypericum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, is often associated with warding off evil spirits and negative energies. It's traditionally used in various cultures to protect against supernatural forces.
• Healing: St. John's Wort is well-known for its medicinal properties, particularly in treating depression and anxiety, which makes it a symbol of mental health and healing.
• Strength: The hardy nature of St. John's Wort, with its ability to thrive even in poor soils, makes it a symbol of resilience and inner strength.
• Celebration: Its association with the feast day of St. John the Baptist has made St. John's Wort a plant representative of joy, celebration, and the triumph of life at midsummer.
• Life and Vitality: With its vibrant yellow flowers, St. John's Wort embodies brightness, life energy, and the vigor of nature.