Hypericum intermedium Steudel ex A.Rich.
Hypericum intermedium Steudel ex A.Rich. is a plant species that belongs to the family of Clusiaceae. It is also known as intermediate St. John's wort, and it is native to the Caucasus and Iran.
General Appearance
The plant grows up to 1 meter tall, with lance-shaped leaves that are up to 4 cm long. The flowers are bright yellow and have five petals that are up to 1.5 cm long. The plant blooms from June to September, and the fruits are small capsules that contain many small seeds.
Common Names
The common names of Hypericum intermedium Steudel ex A.Rich. include intermediate St. John's wort, golden St. John's wort, and yellow St. John's wort.
Uses
Hypericum intermedium Steudel ex A.Rich. has several medicinal uses, such as treating depression, anxiety, insomnia, and nerve pain. It is also used as a natural remedy for some skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema. The plant contains hypericin and hyperforin, which are believed to be responsible for its therapeutic effects. Additionally, it has been used in traditional medicine to treat wounds, burns, and stomach problems.
Light Requirements
Hypericum intermedium Steudel ex A.Rich. typically thrives in full sunlight exposure conditions. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow properly. Insufficient sunlight may result in stunted growth and a decline in the plant's overall health.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Hypericum intermedium Steudel ex A.Rich. is 15°C to 30°C. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but prefers moderately warm temperatures. Cold and frosty conditions can be detrimental to the plant's growth and survival.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils with good fertility levels. It thrives in loamy and sandy soils with moderate soil moisture levels. If the soil is too wet or poorly drained, it can result in root rot and other fungal diseases. A slightly acidic to neutral pH range is ideal for the plant's growth.
Cultivation Methods
Hypericum intermedium, commonly known as intermediate St John's wort, is a versatile plant that can grow in various soil types, but it thrives well in well-draining soils. An ideal soil mix for this plant is one part peat, one part loam, and one part sand. Plant your seedlings in spring or fall in a location with full sun or partial shade.
When planting, make sure you keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Place each seedling at least 12 inches apart to allow for proper growth. You can grow the plant in gardening beds or containers, but ensure that the planting area receives enough sunlight.
Watering Needs
Hypericum intermedium requires regular watering, but the frequency differs based on the planting location, weather conditions, and soil type. Check the soil frequently and provide water when necessary, ensuring that the water penetrates deeply into the soil.
Water the plant thoroughly, allowing the water to soak into the soil. Avoid getting the foliage wet, as doing so may lead to diseases. During the summer, the plant may need watering every three to four days, while in winter, you can reduce the watering frequency to once or twice a week.
Fertilization
Hypericum intermedium requires fertilization to maintain healthy growth and increase its blooming rate. Use a complete fertilizer like 10-10-10 once every month during the growing season, from spring to summer.
To fertilize, mix the fertilizer with water according to the package instructions and apply it to the base of the plant. Be careful not to overfertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced blooming.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for Hypericum intermedium and should be done annually to enhance its health and appearance. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Remove any damaged, diseased, or dead stems and trim the plant to the desired size and shape. You can also selectively prune the plant to encourage more blooming. After pruning, dispose of the trimmings and maintain adequate watering and fertilization to enhance the plant's recovery.
Propagation of Hypericum intermedium Steudel ex A.Rich.
Hypericum intermedium Steudel ex A.Rich., commonly known as the intermediate St. John's wort, can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and root division.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds can be sown in spring, and they require stratification to germinate. This involves storing the seeds in moist soil or a damp paper towel in the refrigerator for several weeks. Once stratified, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining and fertile soil mix. They should be kept moist and in a warm location to encourage germination.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken from the plant in late spring or early summer. A 4-6 inch long cutting should be taken from the tip of a healthy stem and cut just below a node. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining and moist soil mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or dome to retain moisture, and place it in a shaded location. Once roots have formed, the cutting can be transplanted into a larger container or into the ground.
Propagation through Root Division
Root division is an easy and quick method of propagating intermediate St. John's wort. This can be done in early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant. Dig up the plant and use a knife or garden shears to separate the root ball into smaller sections. Ensure that each section has some roots and shoots. Replant each section in a well-draining and fertile soil mix at the same depth it was previously planted. Water well after planting.
Disease Management
Hypericum intermedium Steudel ex A.Rich. is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to remove and destroy any infected leaves immediately. Apply fungicides such as neem oil, copper soap, or potassium bicarbonate following the instructions on the label. Additionally, ensure to provide adequate air circulation around the plant to reduce humidity.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease typically causes dark brown or black lesions on the leaves. To manage anthracnose, it is recommended to prune and dispose of any infected parts of the plant. Apply a fungicide that contains copper hydroxide, chlorothalonil, or mancozeb according to the instructions on the label.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, it is recommended to prune and dispose of any infected parts of the plant. Additionally, avoid overhead irrigation and instead, water the plant at the base. Apply a fungicide such as mancozeb or copper hydroxide according to the instructions on the label.
Pest Management
Hypericum intermedium Steudel ex A.Rich. is also vulnerable to various pests, including:
- Aphids: These soft, green insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves by sucking out the sap. To manage aphids, it is recommended to prune and dispose of heavily-infected parts of the plant or blast off the pests with water. Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings by planting companion plants that attract them.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests are visible when they create fragile webs on the undersides of leaves. They can make the plant appear yellow and leave it weak and unhealthy. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to prune and dispose of heavily-infested parts of the plant. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the instructions on the label. Additionally, ensure that the plant gets enough water and humidity.
- Whiteflies: These tiny white insects can cause yellowing, curling, and stunted growth of leaves by sucking out plant sap. To manage whiteflies, it is recommended to prune and dispose of heavily-infested parts of the plant. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the instructions on the label. Yellow sticky traps can also be used to attract and catch adult whiteflies.
Regular monitoring and proper sanitation can prevent and control the spread of pests and diseases to other plants nearby. It is important to follow the application instructions on the pesticide labels and to apply them with caution to avoid causing harm to the environment or beneficial organisms.
