Creeping St. John's wort (Hypericum calycinum) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

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Plant Encyclopedia > Creeping St. John's wort

Creeping St. John's wort

Hypericum calycinum

Also known as : Resurrection plant, Rose-of-Sharon, Great St-John's wort, Creeping Aron's Beard

The creeping St. John's wort (Hypericum calycinum) is a low, creeping, woody shrub commonly found on steep European slopes. The common name has roots in biblical texts, but has historically been applied to several different species; this particular species is likely not the same as the creeping St. John's wort mentioned in the bible.

Planting Time

Spring, Fall

Care Guide for Creeping St. John's wort

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Watering Care

Rose of sharon needs soil that is kept slightly moist, and should be watered whenever the soil surface dries out. The period between waterings can shorten greatly if the plant spends a lot of time in direct sunlight, so keep an eye out. Water only at the root zone.

Details on Watering Care

Fertilizing Care

Creeping St. John's wort can be fertilized using two different methods. Granular applications of a balanced fertilizer can be applied once a year to the soil around the base of the plant, either late in autumn after the leaves have dropped, or before bud break in early spring. Alternately, liquid fertilizer can be given during watering, four times a year from spring through midsummer. Container plantings need to be repotted into fresh soil roughly once a year to get all the nutrients they need.

Details on Fertilizing Care

Soil Care

Sand, Loam, Clay, Chalky, Alkaline

Details on Soil Care

Ideal Lighting

Full sun, Partial sun, Full shade

Details on Sunlight Requirements

Ideal Temperature

4 to 9

Details on Temperature

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Creeping St. John's wort

Sunlight

Full sun

Hardiness Zones

4 to 9

Planting Time

Spring, Fall

Questions About Creeping St. John's wort

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Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Creeping St. John's wort?

Your Creeping St. John's wort will not be too picky about how you choose to water it. As such, you can use just about any common watering tool to moisten this plant’s soil. Watering cans, hoses, and even cups will work just fine when it is time to water your Creeping St. John's wort. Regardless of which watering tool you use, you should typically apply the water directly to the soil. In doing so, you should ensure that you moisten all soil areas equally to give all parts of the root system the water it needs. It can help to use filtered water, as tap water can contain particles that are harmful to plants. It is also beneficial to use water that is at or slightly above room temperature, as colder or hotter water can be somewhat shocking to the Creeping St. John's wort. However, the Creeping St. John's wort usually responds well to any kind of water you give it.

What should I do if I water my Creeping St. John's wort too much or too little?

For outdoor plants, especially newly planted plants or plant seedlings, they can be prone to lack of watering. Remember that you need to keep watering enough for a few months when the tree is small or just planted. This is because once the roots are established, Creeping St. John's wort can rely on rain most of the time. When your Creeping St. John's wort is planted in pots, overwatering is often more likely to.When you accidentally overwater your Creeping St. John's wort, you should be prepared to remedy the situation immediately. First, you should stop watering your plant right away to minimize the effect of your overwatering. After, you should consider removing your Creeping St. John's wort from its pot to inspect its roots. If you find that none of the roots have developed root rot, it may be permissible to return your plant to its container. If you do discover signs of root rot, then you should trim away any roots that have been affected. You may also want to apply a fungicide to prevent further damage. Lastly, you should repot your Creeping St. John's wort in soil that is well-draining. In the case of an underwatered Creeping St. John's wort, simply water this plant more frequently. Underwatering is often an easy fix. If you underwater, the plant's leaves will tend to droop and dry out and fall off, and the leaves will quickly return to fullness after sufficient watering. Please correct your watering frequency as soon as underwatering occurs.

How often should I water my Creeping St. John's wort?

Most plants that grow naturally outdoors can be allowed to grow normally with rainfall. If your area lacks rainfall, consider giving your plants adequate watering every 2 weeks during the spring and fall. More frequent watering is needed in summer. In winter, when growth becomes slower and plants need less water, water more sparingly. Throughout the winter, you may not give it additional watering at all. If your Creeping St. John's wort is young or newly planted, then you should water more frequently to help it establish, and mature and grow up to have more adaptable and drought tolerant plants. For potted plants, there are two main ways that you can determine how often to water your Creeping St. John's wort. The first way is to set a predetermined watering schedule. If you choose this route, you should plan to water this plant about once every week or once every other week. However, this approach may not always work as it does not consider the unique conditions of the growing environment for your Creeping St. John's wort . Your watering frequency can also change depending on the season. For instance, a predetermined watering schedule will likely not suffice during summer when this plant's water needs are highest. An alternative route is to set your watering frequency based on soil moisture. Typically, it is best to wait until the first two to four inches of soil, usually ⅓ to ½ depth of the pots, have dried out entirely before you give more water.

How much water does my Creeping St. John's wort need?

When it comes time to water your Creeping St. John's wort, you may be surprised to find that this plant does not always need a high volume of water. Instead, if only a few inches of soil have dried since your last watering, you can support healthy growth in the Creeping St. John's wort by giving it about five to ten ounces of water every time you water. You can also decide your water volume based on soil moisture. As mentioned above, you should note how many inches of soil have dried out between waterings. A surefire way to make sure your Creeping St. John's wort gets the moisture it needs is to supply enough water to moisten all the soil layers that became dry since the last time you watered. If more than half of the soil has become dry, you should consider giving more water than usual. In those cases, continue adding water until you see excess water draining from your pot’s drainage holes. If your Creeping St. John's wort is planted in an area that gets plenty of rain outdoors, it may not need additional watering. When the Creeping St. John's wort is young or just getting established, make sure it gets 1-2 inches of rain per week. As it continues to grow and establish, it can survive entirely on rainwater and only when the weather is hot and there is no rainfall at all for 2-3 weeks, then consider giving your Creeping St. John's wort a full watering to prevent them from suffering stress.

How can I tell if i'm watering my Creeping St. John's wort enough?

Overwatering is a far more common problem for the Creeping St. John's wort, and there are several signs you should look for when this occurs. Generally, an overwatered Creeping St. John's wort will have yellowing leaves and may even drop some leaves. Also, overwatering can cause the overall structure of your plant to shrivel and may also promote root rot. On the other hand, an underwatered Creeping St. John's wort will also begin to wilt. It may also display leaves that are brown or brittle to the touch. Whether you see signs of overwatering or underwatering, you should be prepared to intervene and restore the health of your Creeping St. John's wort.

How can I water my Creeping St. John's wort at different growth stages?

When the Creeping St. John's wort is very young, such as when it is in a seedling stage, you will need to give it more water than you would if it were at a mature age. During the early stages of this plant’s life, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist to encourage root development. The same is true for any Creeping St. John's wort that you have transplanted to a new growing location. Also, the Creeping St. John's wort can develop showy flowers and fruits when you give them the correct care. If your Creeping St. John's wort is in a flowering or fruiting phase, you will likely need to give a bit more water than you usually would to support these plant structures.

How can I water my Creeping St. John's wort through the seasons?

The seasonal changes will affect how often you water your Creeping St. John's wort. Mainly, during the hottest summer months, you will likely need to increase how much you water this plant, especially if it grows in an area that receives ample sunlight. Strong summer sunlight can cause soil to dry out much faster than usual, meaning that you’ll need to water more frequently. By contrast, your Creeping St. John's wort will need much less water during the winter, as it will not be in an active growing phase. During winter, you can get by with watering once every 2 to 3 weeks or sometimes not at all. For those growing this plant indoors, you should be somewhat wary of appliances such as air conditioners, which can cause your plant to dry out more quickly, which also calls for more frequent watering.

What's the difference between watering my Creeping St. John's wort indoors vs outdoors?

In some cases, your Creeping St. John's wort may not need any supplemental watering when it grows outside and will survive on rainwater alone. However, if you live in an area of little to no rain, you should water this plant about every two weeks. If you belong to the group of people who live out of this plant's natural hardiness zone, you should grow it indoors. In an indoor setting, you should monitor your plant's soil as it can dry out more quickly when it is in a container or when it is exposed to HVAC units such as air conditioners. Those drying factors will lead you to water this plant a bit more often than if you grew it outdoors.

Is pruning necessary for my Creeping St. John's wort?

Before your Creeping St. John's wort hedge begins taking over the sidewalk, or your hanging basket Creeping St. John's worts start to look scraggly, it is a good idea to think about pruning. Without proper maintenance, Creeping St. John's wort may grow rapidly and uncontrollably, crowding out other plants. If you decide to include Creeping St. John's wort in your garden or landscaping plan, you should monitor its growth carefully and have a plan for pruning. Pruning is as important for the Creeping St. John's wort as it is for any other ornamental plant species that you may choose to grow in your garden. If you prune this plant properly, you can enhance its overall health while preserving its most showy ornamental features. With that said, you cannot expect to reap those benefits if you don’t know when and how to prune this species. In fact, improper pruning can cause you to remove the season’s blooms, detracting significantly from the Creeping St. John's wort’s beauty. Even if you live in a cooler area or only plan to grow Creeping St. John's wort in pots or hanging baskets, regular pruning can encourage blooming and keep your plants healthy and vigorous.

When is the best time to prune my Creeping St. John's wort?

As Creeping St. John's wort blooms earlier than normal plants, pruning should also be earlier. What you should do instead is wait until the late spring or early summer to prune if you want to prune your Creeping St. John's wort on a large scale. The ideal time for pruning takes place at the end or just after this plant’s bloom period. Also, you should avoid pruning late in summer and into fall, pruning at this time may affect the flowering of plants the following year. Additionally, you may want to trim the plants throughout the growing season to encourage blooming. You can also prune at any time if there is any yellowing or diseased foliage.

How can I prune my Creeping St. John's wort?

For your major pruning, use sharp pruning sheers that will make clean cuts to avoid damaging your plants. Make each cut at a 45° angle to encourage healthy new growth. Remove any dead or decayed stems first, cutting them off just above the damaged section or cutting them completely to the ground. Next, consider the desired height and shape of your Creeping St. John's wort, and then prune accordingly. To control the size of your Creeping St. John's wort, you can cut back as much as one third of its height and girth, and it is best done by pruning immediately after flowering Finally, you may prefer to just trim off dead or damaged portions of the plant, including deadheading spent flowers, to keep it looking its best. This can be done at any time of year. Diseased or damaged stems should be cut right at the soil line and removed completely. Blooms should be cut off just below the flower head.

What should I do after pruning my Creeping St. John's wort?

Creeping St. John's wort is generally tolerant of limited water and may become mildewy with too much water. Right after pruning is a good time to water and fertilizer though, to encourage new growth and blooming. However, care needs to be taken to avoid wounded areas when watering to avoid fungal infestation of the plant through fresh wounds. When you are ready to dispose of sections of the plant that you removed during pruning, there are two important things to keep in mind. Creeping St. John's wort leaves or branches found to be diseased need to be trimmed off and destroyed away from the plant. Do not used as compost material. Wherever you dispose of the trimmings, remember that Creeping St. John's wort roots and spreads easily. Be careful that your trimmings do not inadvertently produce new, unwanted Creeping St. John's wort.

What are some tips for pruning my Creeping St. John's wort?

From hedges to containers, in any landscape or garden, annual pruning and regular trims can encourage Creeping St. John's wort produce beautiful blooms and remain healthy for many years. For your major pruning, use sharp pruning sheers that will make clean cuts to avoid damaging your plants. Make each cut at a 45° angle to encourage healthy new growth. As you are pruning your Creeping St. John's wort, step back occasionally to check the appearance of the plant to make sure it has the shape you want and that you are pruning it symmetrically. Try not to prune heavily at flowering time, just the dried flowers need to be pruned back as this will affect flowering. A useful approach is to remove only the longer branches and sucker shoots, leaving the blooms closer to the primary stems intact. Finally, as you prune, be on the lookout for mold or mildew. Creeping St. John's wort is susceptible to fungal or bacterial and you will want to address this problem, removing molded or fungal(bacterial) sections to avoid further damage to your Creeping St. John's wort.

How much/long should Creeping St. John's wort get sunlight per day for healthy growth?

For healthy growth, make sure that Creeping St. John's wort receives at least 3–6 hours of sun each day. This is actually a minimum requirement—most plants that can handle part sun can also thrive in full sun, but because they require less light for photosynthesis, they are more flexible than plants that require full sun or part shade.

What type of sunlight does Creeping St. John's wort need?

Creeping St. John's wort does best with exposure to full or part sun. They will perform best with direct morning light, but in summer they need protection from the strong afternoon sun. In temperate environments, too much hot afternoon sun can burn the leaves, damaging the plant's appearance and health.

Can sunlight damage Creeping St. John's wort? How to protect Creeping St. John's wort from the sun and heat damage?

Creeping St. John's wort planted indoors can easily be damaged by direct sunlight when it's moved outdoors. The best way to prevent sunburns from overexposure is to move pots gradually from a shaded area to a brighter spot, gradually. But even plants that are acclimated to the summer sun can be damaged by extreme heat. In a heatwave, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist so that plants can cope with excessive levels of heat. Moving plants in containers to areas with afternoon shade or erecting a shade cloth over them can protect sensitive Creeping St. John's wort during extreme weather events.

Does Creeping St. John's wort need to avoid sun exposure? / Should I protect Creeping St. John's wort from the sun?

While bright morning sun and some full sun exposure can be highly beneficial for Creeping St. John's wort, the harsh, hot midday sun of summer can be too much to handle. If planted in the ground, the summer sun will usually ramp up slowly enough through the season for Creeping St. John's wort to gradually adapt to its intensity. But a potted plant that has been indoors or in a protected location will often suffer injury when placed suddenly into a location where the direct summer sun reaches it in the hottest part of the day. To protect this plant from the brutal afternoon summer sun, plant or place it in an understory location where it is shaded at midday by taller trees and plants or by a building or landscape feature.

What will happen if Creeping St. John's wort gets inadequate sunlight?

When Creeping St. John's wort receives too little sun, they may become pale green or display drooping, yellow leaves. While some leaf drop is normal, if leaves are dropping but no new ones are growing in to replace them, it is a sign that something is wrong. If Creeping St. John's wort receiving inadequate light does manage to grow, the new growth is often spindly, pale, and prone to insect infestation. Paying attention to these signs and changing the lighting conditions of the plant will make a significant difference.

Does Creeping St. John's wort need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?

Tender, new leaves are especially sensitive to sunburn. Bearing this in mind, very young Creeping St. John's wort and when it's in a strong growth phase, such as in late spring and early summer, will be more sensitive to harsh sun and heat than the mature one or those in a more dormant fall growth stage. Creeping St. John's wort fresh from a nursery is also usually not prepared for strong full sunlight and must be introduced to it slowly.

Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Creeping St. John's wort?

Recently transplanted Creeping St. John's wort will often experience a bit of shock and will need to be cared for carefully, either shaded from bright afternoon sun or placed in a protected area. On very hot days, you may see the leaves of Creeping St. John's wort drooping—this is usually nothing to worry about. Plants will send the water in their leaves down into their roots to protect them from burning. However, if the leaves are still drooping in the evening or the next morning, the plant needs water. Always avoid watering during the hottest times of day, as sunlight can hit wet leaves and scorch them easily. Creeping St. John's wort that has been underwatered will be weaker than that with consistently moist soil. This can leave it with weak roots that are unable to protect the leaves on hot, sunny summer days by diverting water away from the leaves. Care for an underwatered plant by giving it a long, deep watering and then allowing the top two inches of soil to dry out before the next watering. Even if it loses its leaves, if cared for properly it will grow new ones.

What is the optimal temperature for Creeping St. John's wort?

The best temperature for Creeping St. John's wort to thrive is 65~80℉(18~27℃). During the primary growing phase, the highest temperature tolerable would be 95℉(35℃), while the lowest tolerable temperature would be 15℉(-10℃). This species is tolerant of low temperatures and will survive freezing winters. The perfect, highest, and lowest temperature range: Perfect：65~80℉(18~27℃) Highest：85~95℉(30~35℃) Lowest：-5~15℉(-20~-10℃) or below

Should I adjust the temperature for Creeping St. John's wort during different growing phases?

Research shows that Creeping St. John's wort will begin to exhibit signs of stunted growth during prolonged periods of higher temperatures, especially during the development of axillary buds and the growth of main shoots. Keeping the temperatures consistent and cooler, around 65℉(18℃), will encourage vigorous growth after germination or transplanting.

How can I keep Creeping St. John's wort warm in cold seasons?

Creeping St. John's wort can withstand freezing temperatures when planted in the ground in areas that don’t get below of 15℉(-10℃) as an extreme temperature during the winter months. But if planted in pots or containers, then their roots must be protected from the winter cold. Do this by wrapping the container in a blanket or bringing it inside where it will be fully protected from the elements.

What damage will Creeping St. John's wort suffer if the temperature is too high/low?

Greater harm will come to Creeping St. John's wort if the temperature is consistently too high versus too low. If Creeping St. John's wort gets too hot, seed germination and photosynthesis efficiency is lessened due to hormone triggers caused by heat stress. The plant will show signs through wilting, leaf browning, and potentially death. If Creeping St. John's wort gets too cold, plant functions such as nutrient uptake and photosynthesis will cease, resulting in the possible death of the plant. If a single freezing event occurs during the growing season, then a membrane phase transition might occur, which can cause a cease in plant functions and death of the plant.

What tips and cautions should I keep in mind when it comes to temperature for Creeping St. John's wort?

Keeping the soil temperature consistent is one of the most important strategies to keeping Creeping St. John's wort healthy, which leads to successful budding, flowering, and new growth. Do this by consistently watering, adding mulch to bare soil, and planting in the shade.

How can I keep Creeping St. John's wort warm without a heat pad?

Due to the cold tolerance of Creeping St. John's wort, heating pads will not be necessary if planted outside in the ground. If the plant is in an outdoor pot, then bring it inside a heated house and place it in a sunny window during the winter months.

How can I provide Creeping St. John's wort with an adequate temperature condition?

To ensure adequate temperature conditions are present, plant Creeping St. John's wort in an area with partial shade. If possible, use afternoon shade to provide the best protection during the hottest part of the day. This will also result in lower temperatures in the soil due to increased moisture retention. If Creeping St. John's wort is planted indoors, then keep the container away from windows and out of direct sunlight during the summer months to prevent the soil temperature from spiking daily.

How can I save Creeping St. John's wort from temperature damage?

During the summer or times of high heat, give Creeping St. John's wort extra shade and water to help cool its leaves, roots, and soil. During cold snaps or growing season freezes, cover sensitive budding vegetation with frost cloth or water using sprinkler systems. If it’s only nearing freezing temperatures for a short period, then water during the day several hours before the freeze. If the temperature is predicted to remain below freezing for an extended period, then keep the sprinkler running until the temperature rises above freezing the following day.

Should I adjust the temperature for Creeping St. John's wort in different seasons?

Creeping St. John's wort is a mid-temperature plant that can easily tolerate the typical fluctuations of the seasons and remain a hardy species when planted in maintained landscapes areas, containers, or indoors. Therefore, adjusting the temperature during the different seasons is unnecessary for primary growth. If flowering is stunted or impeded, then allowing the plant to experience a season of winter freeze could help to revive flowering.

Under what conditions should I stop adjusting the temperature for Creeping St. John's wort?

If it becomes too difficult to lower the temperature for an indoor plant during the summer, then plant it outside in the ground or in a container. Make sure to plant Creeping St. John's wort in a shaded location and water often to keep the soil moist.

Why do I need to fertilize my Creeping St. John's wort?

You need to fertilize a Creeping St. John's wort for a few important reasons. The most obvious of these reasons is that fertilizer will help your Creeping St. John's wort produce lovely blooms. Fertilizing in early spring is one of the best ways to ensure that your Creeping St. John's wort has excellent flowers during that season. Fertilizer also gives your Creeping St. John's wort plenty of energy that it can store in the ground during its dormant growth phases. Giving your Creeping St. John's wort some extra nutrients during the fall planting process or during the late spring will help your Creeping St. John's wort hold more energy to use once active growth resumes.

When is the best time to fertilize my Creeping St. John's wort?

Timing is crucial when it comes to fertilizing Creeping St. John's wort. If you use fertilizer too early while the Creeping St. John's wort is still dormant at this time. This fertilizer cannot be used effectively and will be washed away by rainwater, causing waste and pollution. The first application of fertilizer should be applied in the early spring. Continue fertilizing once a month until early summer.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Creeping St. John's wort?

Avoid giving Creeping St. John's wort a fertilizer with too much nitrogen, since this can lead to development of plenty of leaves but not many blooms. Look for fertilizer with a lower level of nitrogen compared to other nutrients. Do not fertilize after the early autumn, which can cause too much growth just before winter. Also, Creeping St. John's wort should not be fertilized during hot and dry times of year, since dry soil does not deliver fertilizer as effectively as moist soil. Fertilizing at this time can also stimulate growth which in turn needs more water that may not be available. It is best to keep fertilizer for earlier in the season when temperatures are cooler. Finally, remember that Creeping St. John's wort can absorb fertilizer that has been applied to nearby plants or lawns, so be cautious about inadvertently giving tree/shurb a double-dose of fertilizer.

What type of fertilizer does my Creeping St. John's wort need?

The ideal fertilizer for a Creeping St. John's wort is one that has a relatively balanced mix of the three main plant nutrients, with slightly higher amounts of phosphorus. Alternatively, some gardeners choose to improve their Creeping St. John's wort 's soil by adding organic materials such as compost, worm castings, and manure. Some experienced gardeners will supplement 1-2 times with water-soluble fertilizers containing phosphorus when the flower buds start to appear. This will help the flowers develop better and allow them to grow larger and bloom longer. Fertilizers can come in many forms, and most of these forms will work well for your Creeping St. John's wort. However, some of the best fertilizers for Creeping St. John's wort come in either a liquid or a powdered form. Regardless of which you use, you should ensure that you dilute your fertilizer and apply it while watering your Creeping St. John's wort.

How do I fertilize my Creeping St. John's wort?

Always follow directions for the specific type of fertilizer and do research on how to use it for the Creeping St. John's wort you are growing. It is important not to over-fertilize your Creeping St. John's wort, so determining the correct amount to use is crucial. The usual rule of thumb is to use the age of the tree (if known) or the diameter of the trunk to understand how much fertilizer should be used. Estimate a one-tenth of a pound of fertilizer per year or per inch of trunk, with a maximum of one pound. Granular fertilizers and organic fertilizers such as blood meal are applied by sprinkling the substance around the base of the tree all the way to the drip line (the space below the farthest-reaching branches) but do not let fertilizer come in contact with the trunk. Over time, the granules break down and filter into the soil to be absorbed into the roots. After fertilizing, spread an inch-deep layer of compost around the base of the tree and water thoroughly.

What happens if I fertilize my Creeping St. John's wort too much?

It is far better to under-fertilize than over-fertilize, since you can always add more but you cannot easily take away excess fertilizer. Over-fertilizing your Creeping St. John's wort may cause brown leaf tips and edges, yellowing, wilting leaves, and possibly a visible crust of fertilizer salts on the surface of the soil around the tree. This condition is called fertilizer burn and results from too many accumulated salts in the plant’s cells. If excess nitrogen is the issue, the Creeping St. John's wort will produce a lot of leaves but won’t grow much flowers since nitrogen supports foliage growth. If you have overfertilized, you could try removing the top layer of soil under the Creeping St. John's wort to remove the most concentrated area of fertilizer. Then flush the area by watering heavily to try to get rid of fertilizer around the roots.

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Key Facts About Creeping St. John's wort

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Attributes of Creeping St. John's wort

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Planting Time

Spring, Fall

Bloom Time

Late spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Harvest Time

Summer

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

1 m to 2 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

3 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Fruit Color

Red

Black

Brown

Stem Color

Green

Red

Yellow

Leaf type

Evergreen

Ideal Temperature

5 - 35 ℃

Growth Season

Summer

Growth Rate

Rapid

Name story

Rose of sharon

There are various interpretations of the name Hypericum calycinum. In Greek, “hyper” means above or exceeding, and “eikon” is a picture, so it could mean “exceeding imagination,” referring to its healing powers. Alternatively, it could be linked to Heperion, a Titan, the father of the sun god Helios. The flower has a prominent calyx, hence the name calcynium.

Symbolism

Staunch Hardiness, Strength Against Fear or Animosity

Usages

Garden Use

Creeping St. John's wort is a showy garden ornamental, featuring large flowers that nearly cover the foliage underneath. This plant is a great ground cover and will easily spread over hillsides and slips while stabilizing soils. It will also do well in rock gardens, border fronts, or as decorative cover under tree canopies.

Trivia and Interesting Facts

Despite it’s Biblical-sounding name, creeping St. John's wort does not come from the Holy Land and is not the rose of Sharon mentioned in the Song of Songs, which was probably a crocus (tulipa montana or sharonensis). Hypericum calycinum was discovered by the Rev. George Wheeler in 1675, growing near Constantinople.

Scientific Classification of Creeping St. John's wort

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

Family

St. John's wort

Genus

St. John's worts

Species

Creeping St. John's wort

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Common Pests & Diseases About Creeping St. John's wort

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Common issues for Creeping St. John's wort based on 10 million real cases

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

Solutions: If flower withering is a natural progression due to age, there is nothing that can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible. For lack of water, immediately water the plant using room temperature rainwater, bottled spring water, or filtered tap water. Water container plants until excess water drains out the bottom; water in-ground plants until the soil is soaked but there isn’t standing water on the surface. In the event of nutritional deficiencies, the best solution is to use a granular or water-soluble liquid fertilizer, and apply it to the soil at about half the recommended dosage. Keep it off the leaves and make sure granular products are watered into the soil well. If the plant is infected with a bacterial or fungal pathogen, there is no course of treatment that cures the diseased plants. The best solution is to remove the infected plants and dispose of the plant material off-site. Do not put in a compost pile.

Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

Solutions: For less serious cases: Remove beetles, nymphs, and eggs. Remove all life stages of the beetles and kill them by placing them in a bucket of warm, soapy water. This can be done more easily by placing the bucket under affected leaves and shaking the plant. This method is most effective in the afternoon when leaf beetles are more active. Always dispose of insects in a sealed bag or container to avoid escape and spread. To treat more serious infestations: Apply organic insecticides. Use naturally-derived insecticides before moving on to synthetic insecticides. Neem oil and pyrethrum are naturally-derived insecticides that should be applied following label instructions. Apply synthetic insecticides. Examples of insecticides effective for leaf beetles include carbaryl, permethrin, and bifenthrin. Apply insecticides according to label instructions.

Leaf scorch

Leaf blight causes leaves to dry out and turn brown starting at their tips.

Solutions: The solution to leaf scorch will depend on the cause, however, in general all cultural care methods that improve plant health and root functionality will reduce symptoms. Mulching the root zone (preferably with wood chip mulch) helps retain moisture, reduce evaporation, and promotes a healthy, functional root environment that is critical for water movement to the leaves. Check the root collar for girdling or circling roots that strangle the trunk and limit water and nutrient movement. Protect trees from severe root damage of nearby construction and excavation. If fertilizer burn is to blame, irrigate the soil deeply to flush out excess fertilizer salts. However, keep in mind that fertilizer runoff is an environmental pollutant. Avoiding excess fertilization in the first place is the best approach. If soil testing has revealed a potassium deficiency, apply a potassium fertilizer and water well. Even if you have enough potassium in the soil, plants will not be able to take it up if the soil is consistently too dry. Severely affected twigs may be removed using a pair of sharp and sanitized pruning shears, as weakened branches are susceptible to secondary infections. If your plant has bacterial leaf scorch, there is no cure. Antibiotic injections applied by a professional can reduce symptoms for a season, however, the above cultural management methods are the best options to reduce symptoms and prolong life. An infected plant will likely die within ten years.

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Distribution of Creeping St. John's wort

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Habitat of Creeping St. John's wort

Woodland garden sunny edge, dappled shade; shady edge; not deep shade; ground cover;

Northern Hemisphere

South Hemisphere

Distribution Map of Creeping St. John's wort

Creeping St. John's wort is native to Southeast Europe and portions of Western Asia. The plant has been introduced to other areas, notably across the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and parts of the Southern Hemisphere. It is cultivated in various locales, further extending its presence beyond its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info on Creeping St. John's Wort Growth and Care

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Basic Care Guide

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Lighting

Full sun

Creeping St. John's wort thrives in areas exposed to abundant sunlight during the day. Essential for robust growth, moderate exposure to sunlight can also suffice. It can even survive in places where sunlight is scarce, although its development might be hampered. Originated in a habitat with diverse sun exposure, extreme sunlight can be detrimental, causing leaf scorching. Similarly, scarce sunlight leads to sparse flowering and frail overall health.

Best Sunlight Practices

Transplant

2-3 feet

The most suitable period for relocating creeping St. John's wort is during S1-S3, largely because these seasons provide optimal weather and soil conditions for the plant's growth. When transplanting, remember to select a location with full sun or partial shade. Ensure the site has well-drained soil, as creeping St. John's wort dislikes waterlogged conditions. Last but not least, make every effort to minimize root disturbance.

Transplant Techniques

Temperature

-25 - 38 ℃

Creeping St. John's wort is indigenous to environments with temperatures that range from 41 to 95 °F (5 to 35 ℃). For optimal growth, strive to maintain this range. During seasonal changes, adapt accordingly to prevent extreme temperatures.

Temp for Healthy Growth

Feng shui direction

South

The creeping St. John's wort plant, due to its prostrate habit and yellow bloom, subtly promotes the energies of activity, growth and prosperity. Particularly for a south facing direction, this plant can attract more fire energy, symbolizing fame and recognition, in Feng Shui practice. However, it's best to consult an individual's personal Kua number and the house's Flying Star Chart for a more definitive placement.

Fengshui Details

Plants Related to Creeping St. John's wort

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Sea fig

Sea fig is an edible, ornamental succulent. The plant's leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked. However, its fruit is very sour if it is not ripe. In warm temperate coastal areas, it has become an invasive weed.

Wingstem

Wingstem (Verbesina alternifolia) is a flowering plant native to wooded areas of central and eastern North America. Wingstem is also referred to as yellow ironweed. This plant attracts moths and butterflies by serving as their larval host.

Portia Tree

Portia Tree (Thespesia populnea) is a tropical, evergreen tree valued for its rich, dark wood. Commonly found growing in coastal areas. Thrives in full sun with moist but well-drained soil. It is drought, wind and salt-tolerant. Edible leaves and fruit can be eaten fresh or cooked. The bark, roots, leaves, flowers and fruit have been used medicinally.

Chamber bitter

Chamber bitter is blooms in summer. Its striking branched leaf pattern makes it an attractive ornamental, but it is a weedy plant that takes careful management to stop its seeds from spreading to unwanted areas. It is considered invasive in the southern United States.

New Zealand laurel

The bitter pulp of the new Zealand laurel tree is edible, but use caution, as the fresh kernels are toxic. The Moriori people have historically been known to use a detailed processing method to eat the fruit, but the slightest error could have grave implications.

Artillery plant

The artillery plant is often utilized as a groundcover or an ornamental in many landscapes. It's commonly named the "artillery plant" because the males generally produce pollen in an explosive way. It grows best in a humid environment in partial shade or indirect sunlight. It's a particularly popular plant in indoor rock gardens.

Poison ivy

In pop culture, poison ivy is a symbol of an obnoxious weed because, despite its unthreatening looks, it gives a highly unpleasant contact rash to the unfortunate person who touches it. Still, it is commonly eaten by many animals, and the seeds are a favorite with birds. The leaves turn bright red in fall. Its sister species, Western poison ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii), is not considered to be invasive in the United States, but is noxious in Australia and New Zealand.

Pokeweed

Although its berries look juicy and tempting, the fruits and the root of pokeweed are toxic and should not be eaten. Pokeweed is considered a pest species by farmers but is nevertheless often grown as an ornamental plant. Its berries can be made into pokeberry ink as well.

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Creeping St. John's wort

Hypericum calycinum

Also known as: Resurrection plant, Rose-of-Sharon, Great St-John's wort, Creeping Aron's Beard

Planting Time

Spring, Fall

Care Guide for Creeping St. John's wort

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Watering Care

Fertilizing Care

Soil Care

Sand, Loam, Clay, Chalky, Alkaline

Ideal Lighting

Full sun, Partial sun, Full shade

Ideal Temperature

4 to 9

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