Spotted St. John's wort (Hypericum punctatum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Spotted St. John's wort on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Hypericaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Spotted St. John's wort
Hypericum punctatum, commonly known as Spotted St. Johnswort, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Hypericaceae family, native to North America. It is notable for its oval leaves with tiny translucent dots and its bright yellow, five-petaled flowers that appear in summer, often used in rock gardens or as part of a low hedge. Its delicate yet vibrant appearance makes it ideal for path edges or for adding color to sunny areas of the garden.
Native range
Eastern North America
Care tips
This species thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils, preferably sandy or loamy. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent waterlogging, to which it is sensitive. A common mistake to avoid is excessive soil moisture, which can lead to root rot; ensure optimal drainage. It tolerates light pruning after flowering to maintain its shape and encourage denser growth.
How to save a dying Spotted St. John's wort
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or spotted leaves, premature leaf drop, soft or wilted stems.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. If waterlogged, gently remove and let dry. If very dry, water moderately.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its main killer, suffocating its roots. Intense direct sun also stresses it.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the roots are not completely rotted and you act quickly. It's a resilient plant.