St. John's Wort Hypericum × moserianum Little Misstery = 'Dunnehyp' (PBR) (v)
ABOUT
The plant in question, commonly known as St. John's Wort 'Little Misstery', is a robust and eye-catching plant with a shrub-like appearance. Its foliage is dense and bushy, comprised of elongate and oval-shaped leaves that are rich green in color, presenting a striking backdrop for its blooms. During the flowering season, this St. John's Wort variety dazzles with an abundance of bright, buttery yellow flowers. Each blossom is characterized by its numerous long, delicate stamens which burst forth from the center, creating a halo effect around the prominent, bushy golden stamens. The petals are a vivid yellow, often with a slightly glossy or satiny sheen, radiating warmth and brightening the garden. As the seasons change, the foliage may take on a golden to reddish tinge, adding further interest to the landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Hypericaceae
Synonyms
St. John's Wort, Hypericum
Common names
Hypericum × moserianum Little Misstery = 'Dunnehyp' (PBR) (v)
ToxicityTo humans
The St. John's Wort (Hypericum) species can be toxic to humans when ingested in significant quantities. The exact level of toxicity in Hypericum × moserianum Little Misstery is not well-documented, but it is advised to be careful as similar species contain hypericin, which can lead to photosensitization when ingested. If a human ingests parts of the plant, they may experience symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, confusion, dizziness, and increased sensitivity to sunlight may occur. Consumption of large amounts can potentially lead to more serious complications, so medical advice should be sought if ingestion occurs.
To pets
St. John's Wort (Hypericum) can be toxic to pets, including dogs and cats, although the specific toxicity of Hypericum × moserianum Little Misstery to pets is not well-documented. Generally, if a pet ingests parts of a Hypericum plant, symptoms of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and photosensitivity. In severe cases, the pet may exhibit symptoms such as increased heart rate, difficulty breathing, or agitation. It is advisable to prevent pets from ingesting this plant and to consult a veterinarian immediately if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Cultivar
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value - The plant has attractive yellow flowers that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Low Maintenance - It requires minimal care once established, making it a convenient choice for gardeners of all levels.
- Drought Tolerance - Once established, it can withstand periods of dry weather, thus conserving water.
- Wildlife Attraction - Its flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity.
- Ground Cover - It can be used to cover bare spots in the garden, thus reducing soil erosion.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography and Art Inspiration: The vibrant yellow flowers of Hypericum × moserianum can inspire artists and photographers, serving as a subject for creative projects and garden photography.
- Edible Flower Garnish: Though not commonly consumed, the flowers can be used as an edible garnish for salads after ensuring they are free of any pesticides and safe to eat.
- Handmade Paper: The fibers from the stems and leaves can be included in the process of making handmade paper, adding texture and natural elements to the finished product.
- Dye Production: The flowers and leaves may be used to produce natural dyes for fabrics, yielding colors from yellow to various shades of green.
- Educational Tool: This plant can be used to teach children about plant growth, pollination, and the lifecycle of perennial plants in a garden setting.
- Crafting: The plant's stems, leaves, and flowers can be used in dried floral arrangements or potpourri, adding both color and a light fragrance.
- Landscape Photography: Because of its low, mounding growth habit and attractive flowers, it can be an excellent foreground interest in landscape photography.
- Home Decoration: Live or dried branches can be arranged in vases to create natural and rustic home decor elements.
- Scented Bookmarks: Dried flowers can be laminated into bookmarks, which retain a mild fragrance and make a unique gift for book lovers.
- Plant Stenciling: Leaves and flower shapes can be used as stencils for children’s art projects or to create nature-inspired designs on fabric or walls.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant 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: The plant, commonly known as St. John's Wort, has been historically associated with warding off evil spirits and negative energies.
- Healing: St. John's Wort is well-known for its medicinal properties, symbolizing physical and emotional healing.
- Strength: The resilience of St. John's Wort to thrive in various conditions makes it a symbol of strength and endurance.
- Good Fortune: In some traditions, St. John's Wort is thought to bring good luck and is a symbol of prosperity.
- Love: Some folk traditions use St. John's Wort in rituals to predict or secure a romantic relationship, symbolizing love and the desire for a happy partnership.
WaterThe St. John's Wort 'Little Misstery' should be watered regularly, aiming to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season (spring and summer), it may need watering once or twice a week depending on weather conditions. It's important to check the top inch of the soil for dryness and water when it feels dry to the touch. Reduced watering is required in the fall and winter when the plant's growth slows. Typically, this may equate to around 1-2 gallons per week during active growth periods, but always adjust according to the plant's needs and environmental factors.
LightSt. John's Wort 'Little Misstery' thrives best in full sun to part shade conditions. Ideally, the plant should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Placing it in a spot that benefits from morning sunlight and partial shade during the intense afternoon heat can help to prevent leaf scorch and promote healthy growth.
TemperatureSt. John's Wort 'Little Misstery' prefers a temperature range of 50°F to 90°F. It can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 10°F, making it suitable for many temperate climates. To ensure optimal growth and flowering, keeping the plant in a location where nighttime temperatures do not regularly fall below 50°F is beneficial.
PruningSt. John's Wort 'Little Misstery' should be pruned in late winter or early spring to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Deadheading, or removing spent blooms, will also promote continued flowering throughout the summer. Prune out any dead or damaged wood as needed to improve the plant's overall health and appearance. Annual pruning of about a third of old growth can rejuvenate the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSt. John's Wort 'Little Misstery' prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7. A mixture of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite in equal parts can create an ideal environment for growth and blooming.
RepottingSt. John's Wort 'Little Misstery' typically needs repotting every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Early spring is the best time to repot this plant before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingSt. John's Wort 'Little Misstery' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but flourishes best in moderate humidity. No special humidity conditions are required for this hardy shrub.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in bright, indirect light and water when the topsoil feels dry.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to part shade; mulch, water well, and protect from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleHypericum × moserianum 'Little Misstery', commonly known as St. John's Wort, begins its life cycle when its seeds germinate in spring, requiring well-drained soil and some warmth to sprout. Seedlings emerge and establish themselves, growing into bushy, woody-based perennials with a robust root system. During late spring to early summer, the plant enters its vegetative growth stage, producing elongated stems and oval-shaped leaves. Flowering occurs in mid to late summer, showcasing its bright yellow flowers with a profusion of stamens, a key attraction for pollinators. After pollination, small berry-like fruits may form, containing seeds that can disperse to produce new plants. With the arrival of autumn, the plant begins to prepare for dormancy, reducing growth as temperatures drop, and in winter, the above-ground parts may die back, with the roots remaining alive to regenerate the next spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The most popular method for propagating Hypericum × moserianum Little Misstery, commonly known as the Goldflower, is by softwood cuttings. This typically takes place in late spring or early summer when the new growth is mature enough yet still tender. You would cut a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) length of stem, just below a leaf node, ensuring there are at least two or three sets of leaves on the cutting. The lower leaves are then removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The prepared cutting is then placed in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring at least one set of leaves is above the soil surface. The pot is kept in a warm, bright place out of direct sunlight and the soil is kept consistently moist until roots establish, which typically takes a few weeks. Once rooted, the new Goldflower plant can be transferred to a larger pot or directly into the garden.
