Family: Hypericaceae
Author: Lam.
Bibliography: Encycl. 4: 153 (1797)
Year: 1797
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Hypericum
Vegetable: False
Observations: Alabama to S. Florida, W. Cuba
Description
Fourpetal St. Johnswort, scientifically known as Hypericum tetrapetalum, is an intriguing member of the Hypericaceae family. First described in the Encycl. 4: 153 in 1797 by the botanist Lam., this plant has captured the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike due to its unique features and habitat.
This perennial herb is native to the southeastern regions of the United States, specifically flourishing from Alabama to southern Florida. Its natural distribution extends to the west, reaching portions of Cuba, showcasing its adaptability to various subtropical environments. The Fourpetal St. Johnswort typically thrives in moist, sunny habitats such as wetlands and alongside streams, making it a vital component of those ecosystems.
Identifiable by its distinctive four-petaled yellow flowers, Hypericum tetrapetalum blooms profusely, creating a striking display that attracts pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The bright petals can serve as a cheerful addition to any nature walk or garden. The plant’s leaves are generally small, green, and oblong, contributing to its bushy appearance.
As an important species within the Hypericaceae family, Fourpetal St. Johnswort contributes to the ecological balance of its native regions. Its presence can indicate healthy wetland ecosystems and support biodiversity by providing food and habitat for various wildlife species. Understanding and preserving Hypericum tetrapetalum is vital, as it plays a significant role in the ecological tapestry of its natural habitats.
Common Names
Eng: fourpetal st. johnswort
En: Fourpetal St. Johnswort
: Fourpetal st. johnswort
Synonyms
- Ascyrum amplexicaule (Michx.)
- Ascyrum tetrapetalum ((Lam.) Vail)
- Ascyrum cubense (Griseb.)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Apr 18, 2013 by EOL − Homer Edward Price (cc-by)
Taken Jun 18, 2020 by Jody Taylor (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 25, 2020 by Ian Ian (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 8, 2020 by Alex Arriaza (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 21, 2021 by F.L. Bezoar (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Sep 7, 2015 by Sylvain Piry (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 3, 2020 by cthulhu mittens (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 3, 2022 by Oscar Calinescu (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2022 by Raina J (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 31, 2020 by Luke Luke (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Dec 17, 2014 by EOL − Javier Alejandro (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 17, 2014 by EOL − Javier Alejandro (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 12, 2008 by EOL − Homer Edward Price (cc-by)
Taken Oct 14, 2008 by EOL − Homer Edward Price (cc-by)
Taken Apr 18, 2013 by EOL − Homer Edward Price (cc-by)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3189532)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:433904-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Hypericum tetrapetalum Lam.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Subshrub, Shrub