Overview of Hypericum spathulatum (Spach) Steud. Plant
Hypericum spathulatum, also known as Spatulate St. John's Wort, is a perennial plant species belonging to the Hypericaceae family. It is native to Western North America, where it grows in the mountains and meadows up to the elevation of 10,000 feet.
General Appearance of Hypericum spathulatum (Spach) Steud.
The plant has a clumping growth habit and produces multiple stems, which can reach up to 18 inches in height. The leaves of Hypericum spathulatum are small, oval-shaped, and spathulate (hence the name), up to 1 inch long, and found oppositely on the stems. The plant has showy yellow flowers with five petals measuring about 1 inch in diameter, arranged in corymbose cymes. The flowers bloom from June to September, and the plant forms fruits in the shape of a capsule, containing many small seeds within.
Common Names of Hypericum spathulatum (Spach) Steud.
Hypericum spathulatum is commonly referred to as Spatulate St. John's Wort, Spatulate-leaved St John's Wort, and Western St John's Wort in English. In its native regions, the plant is also known as "kinnikinnick" and "chimaphila," among other names.
Uses of Hypericum spathulatum (Spach) Steud.
Hypericum spathulatum has a long history of medicinal uses, and native tribes used different parts of the plant for treating various ailments. The Chippewa used the plant's roots and leaves to make a concoction used for colds and coughs, while the Navajo people utilized it to make poultices and teas for treating burns and bruises. The plant is also believed to have antiviral and antibacterial properties.
Although Hypericum spathulatum is not extensively cultivated, it is utilized as an ornamental plant, especially in rock gardens, as it is resistant to drought and heat stress. Some species of Hypericum are grown commercially for the production of pharmaceuticals and as natural dyes.
Light Requirements
Hypericum spathulatum typically grows best in areas that have a lot of sunlight. The plant requires high levels of light to carry out photosynthesis effectively. Therefore, it is essential that you plant the shrub in a location that has at least six hours of full sunlight. When planted in ideal lighting conditions, the plant grows vigorously and produces high-quality foliage and flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The plant species of Hypericum spathulatum is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10. It prefers a temperature range of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It is sensitive to cold, and extreme cold temperatures can kill the plant. It is best to avoid planting it in locations with a lot of windy conditions as it can dry out due to too much transpiration. When planting the plant, choose a location with moderate temperatures, provide protection against winds to avoid cold injuries.
Soil Requirements
Hypericum spathulatum prefers well-drained soil with medium fertility and a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. Although the plant can grow in different types of soils, it prefers moist, fertile soils with good drainage. The ideal soil for Hypericum spathulatum is rich in organic matter, porous in nature, and well-aerated. In case the soil pH is not in the ideal range, it can be adjusted using soil amendments such as lime or sulfur.
Cultivation Methods for Hypericum spathulatum
Hypericum spathulatum is a resilient plant that can adapt to a wide range of growing conditions. It can be grown in a variety of soils, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It prefers a well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, but it is best to avoid areas that receive full shade or prolonged periods of dampness.
Watering Needs for Hypericum spathulatum
Hypericum spathulatum is moderately drought-tolerant, which means it can withstand short periods of dryness. However, it is essential to keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season, especially during the hot summer months. It is vital to avoid overwatering this plant as it can cause root rot. Watering once a week during the growing season is ideal, and reducing watering drastically during winter dormancy is necessary.
Fertilization for Hypericum spathulatum
Hypericum spathulatum does not require frequent fertilization to thrive. A well-balanced organic fertilizer can be added in the early spring and late summer to aid plant growth. This plant prefers low to medium soil fertility, and over-fertilization can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced bloom quality. It is best to avoid using chemical fertilizers on Hypericum spathulatum.
Pruning Hypericum spathulatum
Hypericum spathulatum generally requires little pruning, but it benefits from occasional grooming. It is best to remove any dead or diseased branches as well as any weak growth. This plant blooms on previous year branches, so avoid heavy pruning unless it is necessary. Light pruning should be done after blooming to reduce plant size or encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Hypericum spathulatum
Hypericum spathulatum (Spach) Steud., commonly referred to as Spatulate St. John's Wort, has both sexual and asexual means of propagation. Since it is a perennial plant, it can be propagated from seed, cuttings, and division of the root system. By using these propagation methods, the plant can be increased in numbers and spread into new areas.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the easiest method for propagating Hypericum spathulatum. Seeds are available from plant nurseries or can be collected from mature plants. The seeds require stratification, which means they need to experience cold temperature before they can germinate. Seeds should be sown in spring or summer after three to four months of stratification. They should be sown about 2 mm deep in well-drained soil in a sunny or partially shaded location. Germination will occur in 14-30 days.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another popular method to propagate Hypericum spathulatum. Cuttings can be taken in the summer months when the plant is in its active growth phase. Cuttings should be taken from new-growth stems that have not yet flowered. A cutting should be about 5 cm long, and the leaves should be removed from the bottom half of the cutting. The cuttings should be planted in a well-prepared rooting bed under a partial shade condition. In a few weeks, roots and new shoots will appear.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division can be performed in the spring or autumn months. Using a gardening fork, remove a portion of the roots from the plant. The root mass should be teased apart, making sure there are shoots on each root piece. The divided parts should be replanted in a well-drained location and watered. Keep the soil moist for the first few weeks until new shoots appear.
Disease Management
Hypericum spathulatum is generally resistant to most diseases. However, in wet conditions, it can be susceptible to fungal leaf spot diseases such as Cercospora leaf spot and Septoria leaf spot. These diseases can cause small, dark spots on the leaves that can eventually lead to defoliation. To manage these diseases, it is recommended to keep the foliage as dry as possible by using proper irrigation practices, such as drip irrigation instead of overhead watering. Also, avoid overhead watering late in the day, as the leaves will remain damp overnight, promoting disease development. If necessary, apply a fungicide following label instructions.
Pest Management
Hypericum spathulatum is subject to a few insect pests, including aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. Aphids are small insects often found on the undersides of leaves. They suck the sap out of the leaves, causing wilting and discoloration. Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can also cause discoloration and leaf drop. Scale insects attach themselves to the stems and leaves and suck the sap out of the plant. They can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage these pests, it is recommended to first try and remove them by hand. Alternatively, you can apply an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, following label instructions. If these methods are not effective, you may need to use a stronger pesticide, following label instructions carefully.
