St. Johnswort

Florida Forest Plants

St. Johnswort (Hypericum spp.)

St. Johnswort refers to a number of very similar species. Some are grown as ornamentals because of their profuse, long-blooming yellow flowers that contrast well with the deep green foliage. They are frequently used as shrubs or border plants in rock gardens. St. Johnswort is probably best known for its medicinal properties. It is
widely used as an astringent, an expectorant, an aromatic to relieve stress, or an anti-depressant. It is said to aid in sleeplessness and nervousness and an oil extracted from the leaves is used to treat burns and inflammation. It is one of the most popular herbal remedies on the market today. The genus name Hypericum comes from the Greek language and means 'over an apparition'. The plant's unusual odor was said to ward off evil spirits; after one whiff, evil spirits were believed to fly 'over and away'. The plant provides both a food source and habitat for many birds and mammals. St. Johnswort is widely distributed throughout temperate regions. Certain species may be found in all parts of Florida, while others have more limited range.

Identifying Characteristics
Size/Form:	St. Johnswort may take the form of an erect, woody, evergreen shrub with several species that range in height from 3' to 12', or an herbaceous, perennial plant ranging from 1' to 3' in height. The plants often have numerous branches.
Leaves:	The leaves are simple, oppositely arranged, and may have various shapes from linear, needle-like forms to elliptical or lanceolate. Leaves are often whorled around the stem. Leaf margins are entire and may roll inward from the edges. Leaves are smooth, deep green in color and may have obvious glandular dots on the surface.
Flowers:	Flowers are showy yellow blossoms with five petals and many prominent stamens. Some have a feathery appearance. They bloom from early summer through fall.
Fruit:	The fruit is a small, 1/4" long capsule, ovoid to elliptical in shape.
Stem:	The bark and stems of St. Johnswort are reddish-brown, scaly, or peeling and may occasionally be corky or spongy.
Habitat:	St. Johnswort is most often found along pond and marsh edges, in ditches, or in moist flatwoods. Some species grow well in upland sites or along roadsides and sandy ridges.