This St John's Wort species boasts tall plants and large, yellow flowers. It is a perennial that is effortlessly cultivated and is often grown for medicinal purposes. Since it produces an abundance of seeds, it spreads easily through self-seeding.
The flower's name is derived from its bloom time during the summer solstice, coinciding with the traditional feast of St. John. It is believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits, owing to its efficacy in treating depression and melancholy, which were once believed to be caused by demonic oppression. The species name "punctatum," which means "punctured," refers to the small black spots on the leaves and blossoms, which are actually glands that store the plant's oils. The term "wort" comes from Old English and refers to plants commonly used for medicinal or herbal purposes.
Sowing: Sow Great St John's Wort seeds directly in rich soil in the fall, pressing them into the surface and sprinkling a thin layer of soil on top since this seed requires light to germinate. Mixing the seed with sand can aid in seed distribution. Alternatively, mix the seed with moist sand and store it in the fridge for 60 days before planting in the spring. For indoor planting, sow the seeds in a flat, keeping the soil lightly moist and at a temperature of 65-70 degrees F until germination occurs. Transplant the seedlings outdoors as soon as they can be safely handled.
Growing: Keep the seedlings hydrated until they have established. Fully grown plants thrive in regularly moist soil with good drainage and do not do well in drought conditions. Over time, this plant may propagate by rhizomes, but it is not overly aggressive.
Harvesting: These flowers do not make good cut flowers and are best enjoyed in the garden.
The flower's name is derived from its bloom time during the summer solstice, coinciding with the traditional feast of St. John. It is believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits, owing to its efficacy in treating depression and melancholy, which were once believed to be caused by demonic oppression. The species name "punctatum," which means "punctured," refers to the small black spots on the leaves and blossoms, which are actually glands that store the plant's oils. The term "wort" comes from Old English and refers to plants commonly used for medicinal or herbal purposes.
Sowing: Sow Great St John's Wort seeds directly in rich soil in the fall, pressing them into the surface and sprinkling a thin layer of soil on top since this seed requires light to germinate. Mixing the seed with sand can aid in seed distribution. Alternatively, mix the seed with moist sand and store it in the fridge for 60 days before planting in the spring. For indoor planting, sow the seeds in a flat, keeping the soil lightly moist and at a temperature of 65-70 degrees F until germination occurs. Transplant the seedlings outdoors as soon as they can be safely handled.
Growing: Keep the seedlings hydrated until they have established. Fully grown plants thrive in regularly moist soil with good drainage and do not do well in drought conditions. Over time, this plant may propagate by rhizomes, but it is not overly aggressive.
Harvesting: These flowers do not make good cut flowers and are best enjoyed in the garden.