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Spotted St. John's wort

Hypericum maculatum · Hypericaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant spotted st. john's wort: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Foliage
Deciduous
Flowering
June to August
Adult size
30 to 80 cm in height
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Very hardy (down to -15°C)
Origin
Western and central Europe
Soil type
Well-drained, chalky soil acceptable

Care

Watering

Spotted St. John's wort appreciates regularly moist soil without being waterlogged, particularly during the growing season. In summer, water moderately during prolonged dry periods. Once established, it tolerates short droughts well thanks to its developed root system.

Exposure

Install this herbaceous plant in full sun or partial shade for optimal flowering. It accepts partial shade well but will flower less abundantly. Avoid overly hot and drying areas in Mediterranean climates.

Soil and preparation

Spotted St. John's wort prefers soil rich in organic matter, well-drained and slightly acidic to neutral. Improve your planting soil with compost or potting soil when planting. It tolerates chalky soils and is undemanding once established.

Pruning and maintenance

Cut back the plant in late winter (February-March) to maintain a compact shape and rejuvenate the base. Remove spent flowers during summer to extend flowering. This plant doesn't require particularly demanding pruning.

Fertilizer

An application of compost or well-decomposed manure in spring is generally sufficient. In poor soil, a balanced fertilizer can be applied once or twice during the growing season. Avoid excess nitrogen which promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.

Diseases and pests

Spotted St. John's wort is generally robust and rarely subject to disease. Watch for powdery mildew in cases of excessive humidity or poor air circulation. Check for absence of spider mites during hot, dry periods. Good drainage prevents root rot.

Did you know?

The Hypericum genus, to which spotted St. John's wort belongs, has fascinated since antiquity: its translucent leaves dotted with glands (the "pertuisii") seemed to the ancients to contain a divine essence. In the Middle Ages, St. John's wort was burned to ward off evil spirits, hence its association with magic and protection.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.