Kouytchense St. John's Wort Hypericum kouytchense
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Hypericum is a vibrant and attractive perennial. It features an abundance of bright yellow flowers, which consist of five petals each and are often adorned with numerous prominent stamens, creating a frilly or bushy appearance at the center of the bloom. These beautiful flowers are arranged in clusters that grace the plant throughout its blooming period, offering a cheerful display that can enliven any garden setting. The leaves of the Hypericum are oval to oblong in shape and grow opposite each other on the branches. They have a smooth texture and are a rich, deep green in color, providing a lush backdrop for the bright flowers. The foliage may also show a touch of blue or gray, depending on the variety, and in some types, the leaves can display a slightly translucent quality when held up to the light, with visible small oil glands that are characteristic of the species. The stem of Hypericum is typically woody at the base, with herbaceous green growth that supports the weight of the leaves and flowers. This gives the plant a sturdy yet graceful stature in the landscape. The overall form of the plant is dense and bushy, contributing to its ornamental appeal. Hypericum can be easily understood as a lively plant with charming attributes, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of long-lasting color and texture to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Hypericaceae
Synonyms
Kouytchense St. John's Wort
Common names
Hypericum kouytchense
ToxicityTo humans
St. John's Wort, which Hypericum kouytchense is commonly known as, is not generally considered toxic to humans when consumed in moderate amounts, especially as it has historically been used for medicinal purposes. However, ingesting large quantities could potentially cause side effects such as gastrointestinal distress, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, or photosensitivity. Chronic use or high doses might lead to more serious conditions, but generally, the plant's toxicity to humans is low.
To pets
St. John's Wort, which is what Hypericum kouytchense is commonly known as, can be toxic to pets, particularly dogs, cats, and horses if ingested. Symptoms of poisoning in pets may include skin irritation, particularly after exposure to sunlight due to photosensitivity, as well as gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. In more severe cases, neurological effects like depression or anemia might be observed. It is advisable that pets not be allowed to ingest this plant to prevent possible toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3 feet [0.9 meters]
Spread
2 feet [0.6 meters]
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Hypericum kouytchense, commonly known as Kouytchense St. John's Wort, is often used in gardens and landscaping for its attractive foliage and bright yellow flowers.
- Pollinator Attraction: The plant's showy flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, which is beneficial for the ecosystem.
- Drought Tolerance: Kouytchense St. John's Wort is known for its ability to withstand periods of drought, making it suitable for water-efficient gardens.
- Erosion Control: The plant's root system helps to stabilize soil, preventing erosion on slopes and in areas prone to soil degradation.
- Low Maintenance: Requiring minimal care once established, it is a good choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants.
- Adaptability: It adapts well to a variety of soil types and can thrive in both full sun and partial shade environments.
- Seasonal Interest: It provides seasonal interest with its flowering period in the summer and sometimes extends into the fall.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Floral arrangements: Hypericum kouytchense, also known as Kouytchense St. John's Wort, can be used in cut flower arrangements for its attractive berries and foliage.
- Natural dye: The berries of the Kouytchense St. John's Wort can be used to produce natural dyes in various shades of red and pink for fabrics and yarns.
- Garden design: With its showy flowers and berries, Kouytchense St. John's Wort is often used as an ornamental plant in garden borders and landscape designs.
- Photography: The plant's striking appearance makes it a favorite for photographers, serving as a beautiful subject in nature photography.
- Hedge creation: Because of its dense growth, Kouytchense St. John's Wort can be trimmed and maintained as an informal hedge in gardens.
- Wildlife garden: The berries are a food source for birds, making the plant an excellent choice for wildlife gardens to attract birds.
- Erosion control: Hypericum kouytchense can be planted on slopes and banks for erosion control due to its spreading habit and root system.
- Craft projects: Dried branches and seed pods from the plant can be used in crafting wreaths and other decorative items.
- Culinary use: Although not common, the edible flowers can occasionally be used as a garnish in salads and desserts.
- Insect deterrent: Some gardeners use the aromatic properties of the plant to deter pests naturally in the garden.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Hypericum kouytchense, commonly known as St. John's Wort, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant St. John's Wort is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Hypericum kouytchense, commonly known as St. John's Wort, has been historically associated with warding off evil spirits and negative influences.
- Healing and Medicine: St. John's Wort is renowned for its medicinal properties and is frequently used in herbalism to treat various health issues, symbolizing physical and emotional healing.
- Light and Sun: The bright yellow flowers of St. John's Wort are reminiscent of the sun, symbolizing light, warmth, and vitality, often associated with dispelling darkness and depression.
- Midsummer: St. John's Wort is closely linked with the midsummer celebrations, particularly the feast of St. John the Baptist, symbolizing joy, festivity, and the zenith of the growing season.
- Banishing Negativity: Due to its reputation for protection, St. John's Wort is often used in rituals and folklore to banish negative thoughts and promote a positive mindset.
WaterThe Hypericum kouytchense, known commonly as St. John's Wort, requires consistent moisture without waterlogging. Water the plant deeply when the top inch of the soil feels dry, which often translates to about once a week. Depending on weather conditions, this may amount to giving the plant approximately 1 gallon of water every 7 to 10 days during active growth periods in spring and summer. In winter, reduce watering frequency to match the plant's reduced growth rate and allow the soil to dry out slightly more between waterings.
LightSt. John's Wort thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. The best spot for this plant is one where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day, though it can tolerate light dappled shade. If planted indoors, a southern or western window would provide the ideal light exposure for the plant.
TemperatureSt. John's Wort prefers moderate temperatures and can tolerate a range from about 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature for this plant is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees for prolonged periods, as cold temperatures can damage the plant.
PruningPruning St. John's Wort helps maintain its shape and encourages bushier growth. Prune in early spring before new growth starts, cutting back the plant to about 10 to 12 inches from the ground. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers during the blooming season, can also promote a second flush of flowers. It's not necessary to prune more than once a year unless the plant becomes overgrown.
CleaningAs needed
SoilHypericum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 to 7.0. The best soil mix can be created by combining garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand to improve drainage.
RepottingSt. John's Wort should be repotted every 2-3 years to replenish soil nutrients and to accommodate root growth. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one.
Humidity & MistingSt. John's Wort thrives at average room humidity levels. No special humidity adjustments are needed for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place St. John's Wort near bright light, with some direct sun.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to part shade in well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleHypericum kouytchense, commonly known as Kouytchense St. John's Wort, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in spring, provided it meets the necessary conditions of light, moisture, and the appropriate temperature range. Upon germination, a seedling emerges and develops into a young plant with a growing root system and the first set of true leaves. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage, characterized by the development of foliage and a robust root system, preparing the plant for the flowering stage. During summer, the plant enters its reproductive stage, producing bright yellow flowers that attract pollinators and allow for cross-pollination. Once pollinated, the flowers develop into capsules containing numerous small seeds. In the final stage, these seeds are dispersed by various means, such as wind or animals, completing the life cycle as they find suitable ground to grow into new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Summer
Propogation: Hypericum kouytchense, also known as St. John's Wort, is most commonly propagated through softwood cuttings. This technique is generally undertaken in late spring or early summer, aligning with the plant's growth cycle when new growth is abundant, and the stems are neither too old nor too young. To propagate by cuttings, a gardener would snip a 4 to 6-inch (about 10 to 15 cm) length of stem just below a leaf node, where rooting hormones are concentrated. The lower leaves of the cutting are then removed, and the base of the cutting is dipped into a rooting hormone powder or solution to stimulate root development. The treated cutting is then planted in a mix of peat and perlite or sand, ensuring the environment is well-draining and kept consistently moist but not waterlogged, with the cutting placed in indirect light. A plastic bag or dome can be used to retain humidity around the cutting, mimicking a greenhouse environment, which encourages rooting. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new St. John's Wort plant can be transferred to a more permanent location.
