Hypericaceae
St. John's wort (Hypericum) is a genus of perennial flowering plants belonging to the Hypericaceae family. The most economically significant species is Hypericum perforatum, which is widely cultivated for its medicinal properties, primarily due to active components such as hypericin and hyperforin.
Main sections
What the section contains
St. John's wort (Hypericum frondosum)
Hypericum frondosum
St. John's wort (Hypericum suffruticosum)
Hypericum suffruticosum
St. John's wort (Spathulate)
Hypericum spathulum
Starry St. John's wort
Hypericum stellatum
Styphelia-leaved St. John's wort
Hypericum styphelioides
Thasian St. John's wort
Hypericum thasium
Trailing St. John's-wort
Hypericum humifusum
Triadenum
Triadenum
Triquetrous St. John's-wort
Hypericum triquetrifolium
Umbel St. John's wort
Hypericum umbellatum
Ural St. John's wort
Hypericum uralum
Vismia
Vismia
3 items
Wavy St. John's-wort
Hypericum undulatum
Wight's St. John's wort
Hypericum wightianum
Wilson's St. John's wort
Hypericum wilsonii
Woolly St. John's wort
Hypericum lanuginosum
Hypericaceae
Originally native to temperate and subtropical regions of Eurasia and North Africa, the plant has now been successfully adapted to cultivation in many parts of the world. Global production is focused on standardized farming to meet the specific requirements of the pharmaceutical industry regarding consistency and concentration of active substances.
Botanically, the plant is characterized by erect stems, opposite leaves with distinct translucent glands, and bright yellow flowers. It features a robust root system that provides structural stability. The crop thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral pH, demonstrating good adaptability to varying environmental conditions.
Agronomic requirements emphasize the need for full sunlight exposure, as shade negatively impacts the accumulation of secondary metabolites. Growers should implement weed control measures and ensure moderate irrigation, preventing waterlogging which can lead to root rot. Propagation is typically achieved through seed germination or vegetative division.
The primary commercial application is the harvesting of the aerial parts during the flowering stage for subsequent drying and processing. The plant is widely used in medicine to treat mild to moderate depression and various inflammatory conditions. Common threats to the crop include the St. John's wort beetle, spider mites, and fungal pathogens like rust or powdery mildew.