Hypericum androsaemum
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Hypericum androsaemum

Tutsan · St. John’s Wort · Sweet-amber · Park-leaves · 金丝桃(CN)

Tier 1 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun
Water every
7 days
Temperature
5–35 °C
Soil pH
5–7
Hardiness
Zone 5–10
Click count
1,954
Observations
6,307

Description

Source: leafsnap

Hypericum androsaemum, commonly known as Tutsan or Sweet Amber, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Hypericaceae family. Native to Europe and Asia, it has also been introduced to other parts of the world. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and features dark green, oval-shaped leaves with pointed tips. The flowers of Hypericum androsaemum are yellow with five petals and bloom from June to August. The plant produces berry-like capsules that transition from green to red as they ripen. Historically, Hypericum androsaemum has been used for its anti-inflammatory properties in medicinal practices for centuries. Ancient Greeks even believed it could ward off evil spirits. Besides its medicinal uses, this plant is popular in landscaping due to its attractive foliage and vibrant flowers, which add color during the summer months. Overall, Hypericum androsaemum is an intriguing shrub with both medicinal and ornamental value, making it an excellent addition to any garden or landscape design project.

🌳 Although tutsan is not commonly recognized for industrial applications, it nevertheless provides important habitat and food for certain insects. This modest function is essential for preserving biodiversity and supporting pollination in ecosystems where tutsan occurs.

🎭 Hypericum represents protection and rebirth. It is also frequently associated with cheerfulness and inspiration.

Care Guide

💧 Water Every 7 days

Tutsan, which comes from damp woodlands, prefers moist conditions and consistent soil moisture. It typically needs watering every 1-2 weeks. While it can tolerate moderate drought, it thrives in higher humidity. Adding mulch is helpful, as it helps retain moisture and mimics the plant's natural habitat.

Suggested frequency: Every 7 days
FAQ
What is the best way to water my Tutsan plant?

To ensure excellent root development, consider placing a garden hose at the base of your plants. Avoid spraying the leaves directly, as this can be detrimental. Keep in mind that outdoor plants exposed to direct sunlight may need more watering for their leaves. For moistening the roots, you can try using bubblers. If you have a garden or bed with multiple plants, soaker hoses can help by covering the entire area and reaching deep into the roots when adding or removing plants. Drain any excess water and allow the soil to dry before watering again. Watering at ground level is recommended to prevent diseases. Additionally, on a sunny day, consider spraying the entire bush with water. Whether your Tutsan plants are potted or in the ground, remember that they prefer deep watering rather than light sprinkling.

What should I do if I give Tutsan too much or too little water?

An overwatered Tutsan can display several signs of distress. The leaves may turn yellow, drop off, and wilt, giving the plant a dull and unhealthy appearance. Mushy stems may also be visible. If you observe these signs, it is advisable to adjust your watering schedule accordingly. On the other hand, wilting can also occur as a result of under watering. In such cases, the leaves may become crispy and dry. To determine the moisture level of the soil, check if it is dry. If watering alone is insufficient, provide a thorough watering. However, keep in mind that even with adequate water, the damaged root system may cause the plant to display dryness and yellow leaves for a few days. Once it returns to its normal state, the yellowing of leaves will cease. For indoor Tutsan plants, always monitor the moisture levels in the pot. Avoid overwatering and be on the lookout for signs of black spots. If these spots are present, allow the soil to dry by refraining from watering it for a few days. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so if you observe discolored and slimy roots, consider transferring the plant to a different pot. It is crucial to prevent root rot by not letting the soil become excessively soggy. When planting Tutsan outdoors, make sure to dig a little deeper. If you find that the soil is too dry upon checking with your fingers, it could indicate under watering. In this case, providing adequate water is necessary to facilitate the plant's recovery.

How often do I need to water my Tutsan?

The Tutsan plant prefers deep and infrequent watering, especially when grown in pots. In pots, water storage is limited and the soil dries out quickly, so it's important to soak the plant in a gallon of water each time. In cold regions, watering is needed every 3 to 5 days. Water in the morning when the soil is dry, both indoors and outdoors. Check the soil by feeling the top 2-3 inches - if it's dry, it's time to water. On hot days, check the moisture daily as the heat can dry out the soil rapidly. If you have a garden, irrigation is necessary. In hot climates, water once a week when you notice 2 to 3 inches of dry soil. Consider the amount of rainfall and avoid watering if there is already plenty of rainwater, as it can cause root rot. Tutsan plants tend to grow during spring and fall, so when outdoors, use mulch about 3 to 4 inches deep to conserve water. Sandy soil drains quickly, so water more frequently, while clay soil requires less frequent watering to avoid root rot. Mark the date on the calendar when you water and keep an eye on drooping leaves, as they may indicate the need for watering.

How much water should I give my Tutsan plant?

The Tutsan plant needs about a gallon of water on a regular basis. If you have potted plants, you should water them deeply until the water starts dripping from the bottom of the pot. After that, wait for the soil to dry before watering again. To determine how much water you've given your plant in a week, you can use a water calculator or a moisture meter. During the flowering period, it's important to provide plenty of water but allow the moisture to evaporate afterwards to avoid root rot. If the Tutsan plant is planted outdoors and receives sufficient rainfall, it may not need additional watering. However, when the Tutsan plant is young or newly planted, it should receive 1-2 inches of rain per week. As the Tutsan plant grows, it can rely solely on rainfall. Only in extremely hot weather or when there is no rainfall for 2-3 weeks should you consider giving the Tutsan plant a thorough watering during cooler parts of the day to prevent heat damage. Additional watering will be necessary during prolonged dry periods.

Should I change how often I water my Tutsan plant based on the time of year or the weather?

To ensure proper care of the Tutsan plant, it is important to consider its water needs based on the season. During the growing seasons of spring and fall, the soil should be kept consistently moist but not overly saturated. Alternating between dry and moist conditions will promote healthy growth. In the summer, hot weather can cause water to evaporate quickly, so additional watering may be necessary if there is a lack of rainfall. However, during the winter, the Tutsan requires less water as it goes dormant. Using a well-draining soil mixture, such as terracotta, can help with water evaporation during this period. Once the Tutsan begins to leaf out and go dormant, watering can be skipped as it can rely on fall and winter rains. It is important to ensure good drainage at all times, especially during winter, to prevent ponding or drought. When the Tutsan is in a pot, it has limited root growth, so regular watering is necessary, especially in the summer. However, excessive watering should be avoided to prevent cold and wet roots. Deep soaking the entire root system once or twice a week, depending on the weather, is ideal. Shallow sprinkles should be avoided as they do not reach deep into the roots and can encourage fungal growth. It is important to not let the Tutsan dry out completely in the fall or winter, even during dormancy. Overwatering should also be avoided as it can lead to root damage and plant death. Applying mulch can help reduce stress, conserve water, and promote healthy blooms.

☀️ Light Full sun

Tutsan performs best with full sun for most of the day, although it can tolerate conditions where sunlight is diffused or partially filtered at times. Too much or too little sun can impair its healthy growth. Its original habitat is characterized by abundant sunlight.

Ideal: Full sun
FAQ
What are the sunlight requirements for Tutsan?

Tutsan flourishes best under full sun conditions, requiring more than 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive optimally. It can also adapt to partial sun exposure, which consists of about 3-6 hours of sunlight daily. Observing how sunlight moves through your garden is crucial to finding the ideal location that balances light and shade, ensuring your plants remain healthy and happy.

How does sunlight exposure affect Tutsan's growth?

Tutsan requires full exposure to sunlight for most of the day for healthy growth. It can tolerate environments with scattered or filtered sunlight for part of the day. Both overexposure and underexposure to sunlight can negatively impact its growth. Its natural habitat is abundant in sunlight, hinting at its substantial light needs. When natural sunlight isn’t enough, especially during winter or in less sunny areas, artificial lighting can supplement growth. LED lights, which can be customized to a plant's specific needs, are preferred. Adequate wattage varies based on light conditions: 30-50W/sq ft for full sun plants, 20-30W/sq ft for partial sun plants, and 10-20W/sq ft for full shade plants. The light source should be placed 12-36 inches above the plant, and the lighting should last for 8-12 hours a day to mimic natural daylight conditions as closely as possible.

What symptoms indicate insufficient sunlight in Tutsan?

Tutsan shows several symptoms when it doesn't receive adequate sunlight. These include smaller new leaves, leggy or sparse growth, early leaf drop, halted or no new growth, lighter-colored new leaves, and symptoms of sun damage like chlorosis, sunscald, leaf curling, wilting, and leaf scorching. Chlorosis leads to yellowing leaves due to chlorophyll breakdown, sunscald presents as pale or necrotic patches, leaf curling minimizes sun exposure and water loss, wilting is a sign of severe dehydration, and leaf scorching results in brown, crispy leaf edges. Addressing these issues promptly can help restore plant health.

How can I manage sunlight exposure for Tutsan to ensure its health?

Managing sunlight exposure for Tutsan involves several techniques: For indoor plants, gradually increase sunlight exposure to at least 6 hours daily by positioning them near a south-facing window or supplementing with artificial light for around 8 hours daily. For outdoor plants, acclimate them to sunnier spots gradually to avoid sunburn. Reducing obstructions like overhanging branches can increase sunlight exposure. For garden-planted Tutsans, consider transplanting them during their dormant period (late winter or early spring) to a sunnier location with good drainage. Remember, while parts of the plant that have suffered might not recover, new growth should be healthy post adjustment.

🌡️ Temperature 5–35°C

Tutsan is a woody plant of temperate regions native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It typically grows where average temperatures range from 5 to 35 ℃ (41 to 95 ℉). In summer it favors cooler conditions and can tolerate direct sunlight, but in winter it must be protected from frost and prefers cooler temperatures. During autumn and spring, temperatures should be maintained between 15 to 20 ℃ (59 to 68 ℉) to encourage growth and flowering.

Ideal temperature: 5–35°C
FAQ
What is Tutsan and where is it native to?

Tutsan, botanically known as Hypericum androsaemum, is a temperate woody plant native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. This plant thrives in areas that experience average temperatures ranging from 5 to 35°C (41 to 95°F), adapting well to the varying conditions of these regions.

What are the ideal temperature conditions for Tutsan throughout the year?

For optimal growth and blooming, Tutsan requires specific temperature conditions throughout the year. During the summer, it prefers cooler temperatures and can handle direct sunlight. In contrast, winter requires safeguarding from frost, with the plant favoring cooler conditions. In the transitional seasons of fall and spring, maintaining temperatures between 15 to 20°C (59 to 68°F) is ideal to promote its growth and blooming.

How does Tutsan handle cold temperatures and frost?

Tutsan has strong cold resistance, allowing it to withstand cold temperatures without special frost protection measures under normal winter conditions. However, in extreme cases where temperatures are expected to plunge below -25°C, it’s crucial to wrap the plant’s trunk and branches with insulating materials like non-woven fabric or cloth. Additionally, it’s advisable to water the plant abundantly before the first freeze of autumn to keep the soil moist, preventing drought and water scarcity during the colder months.

What should be done if Tutsan experiences temperatures below -25°C?

In conditions where the temperature drops below -25°C, Tutsan may not show immediate signs of distress during winter, but come spring, its branches might become brittle and dry, with a lack of new shoots emerging. The best course of action in spring is to prune away any dead branches that have failed to produce new leaves, aiding in the plant's recovery.

How should Tutsan be cared for during high temperatures?

During periods of high temperature, particularly above 35°C, careful measures need to be taken to protect Tutsan. The plant's leaves may lighten, and the tips could become dry and withered, increasing susceptibility to sunburn. To mitigate this, trim away the sunburned and dried parts, and relocate the plant to a shaded area or use a shade cloth to protect it from the intense midday and afternoon sun. Additionally, watering the plant in the morning and evening can help keep the soil adequately moist.

💨 Humidity dry (<40%)

This plant prefers dry conditions, so don't mist it. However, watering it less often can also thrive in higher humidity.

Humidity: dry (<40%)
🪴 Soil 5-7
Soil pH: 5-7
🌱 Fertilizer

Fertilize your Tutsan in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Regular fertilization improves overall health, leading to vigorous growth, better resilience in harsh conditions, and increased resistance to diseases and pests. Stick to a consistent fertilizing schedule for your Tutsan to keep the foliage vibrant, deeply colored, and lush.

FAQ
Why is it necessary to use fertilizer on my Tutsan?

No matter what type of Tutsan you have, regularly fertilizing it will improve its overall health. Providing the right nutrients will result in stronger growth and make your Tutsan better equipped to handle difficult conditions and fight off pests and diseases. Keeping the foliage intact is important since it is one of the most attractive aspects of your Tutsan. To achieve this, follow a consistent fertilization schedule tailored to your particular Tutsan. This will encourage the development of vibrant, lush leaves.

When should I fertilize my Tutsan plant?

To ensure healthy growth, fertilize your Tutsan for the first time in late winter or early spring. This gives the plant the necessary nutrients for when the weather gets warmer. In warm climate regions, it is also helpful to provide a second fertilizer feeding in early fall. This not only adds nutrients for the following growing season but also makes the Tutsan more resistant to winter cold, reducing the risk of foliage damage. Fertilizing earlier will allow new branches to grow and withstand the cold winter better.

When is the best time to not use fertilizer on my Tutsan plant?

There are specific periods in the year when you should refrain from fertilizing your Tutsan. Firstly, during the early and mid-winter months when your Tutsan is dormant and doesn't require any feeding. Secondly, it is not recommended to fertilize this plant in late spring and throughout summer because the weather is usually hotter and drier, which can have a negative impact on your Tutsan if fertilized. To prevent any potential issues, it is best to stick to a fertilization schedule that focuses on feeding only during early spring and early fall.

What kind of fertilizer does my Tutsan plant need?

Tutsans primarily require nitrogen as their main nutrient, but that doesn't mean phosphorus and potassium are not important. In fact, Tutsans benefit from a decent amount of all three nutrients, which is why a balanced fertilizer like a 10-10-10 can be effective. However, a more specific nutrient ratio often leads to optimal growth for Tutsans. Generally, fertilizers with slightly higher nitrogen content, like a 10-6-4 ratio, tend to work well. When it comes to fertilizing, you have the option of using granular or liquid-based fertilizers.

How should I apply fertilizer to my Tutsan plant?

To fertilize your Tutsan, you can either use a granular or liquid fertilizer. With granular fertilizer, sprinkle it on the soil at the right time and it will slowly release nutrients over time. It's a good idea to lightly water your Tutsan before applying the fertilizer. Alternatively, you can mix the liquid fertilizer with water and pour it around the base of your Tutsan. If needed, you can perform a soil test beforehand to adjust the pH if necessary. Liquid fertilizer is less commonly used than granular.

🪴 Pot & Repot 2-3 years

When repotting Tutsan, select a pot 1-2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) larger with good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring or fall, making sure the root ball sits slightly lower than the rim of the pot. Water thoroughly after repotting and place in a warm spot with indirect sunlight.

Suggested frequency: 2-3 years
✂️ Pruning

The semi-evergreen tutsan is known for its bright yellow flowers and berries. To encourage new growth, prune one-third of the old stems in early spring. Remove any damaged wood to improve air circulation. Regular pruning helps maintain the plant's shape and overall health. Always use clean, sharp tools to prevent the spread of disease.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

The fruits and seeds of all Hypericum plants are considered toxic and will cause digestive distress if eaten.

Characteristics

Plant Type
Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Hypericum
Family
Hypericaceae
Hardiness Zone
5-10
Mature Height
61 cm to 91 cm
Mature Spread
91 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Size
1.52 cm to 2.03 cm
Bloom Time
Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring, Autumn
Harvest Time
Mid summer
Native Area
Turkey, Tunisia, Montenegro, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Morocco, Serbia, Russia, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, France, Iran, Ireland, United Kingdom, Algeria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Turkmenistan, Portugal

Tags (8)

Common Names (5)

en Tutsan
en St. John’s Wort
en Sweet-amber
en Park-leaves
zh 金丝桃(CN)