Tutsan (Hypericum androsaemum)

Also known as: Sweet Amber, Sweet-amber, Shrubby St. John’s wort

Tutsan (Hypericum androsaemum), a relative of St. John's Wort, originates from Europe, Iran, and the Mediterranean. This rapidly spreading plant is deemed invasive in several regions, including Australia, where it is notably avoided by both livestock and wildlife.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Tutsan

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

1 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1.5 cm to 2 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Tutsan

Quickly Identify Tutsan

To identify Hypericum androsaemum, look for a shrub with yellow five-petaled flowers and opposite, simple leaves. The leaves are oval to oblong, and the plant often has reddish stems. The fruit is initially red but turns black when mature.

Scientific Classification of Tutsan

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Malpighiales

Family

St. John's wort

Genus

St. John's worts

Species

Tutsan

Planting and Growing of Tutsan

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

Once a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Tutsan?

Hypericum androsaemum prefers consistent moisture but not sogginess. Each watering session should allow the soil to be moistened thoroughly up to 500 milliliters per session, ensuring the water reaches its root system but avoids waterlogging.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Tutsan? ›

What should I do if my Tutsan is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Tutsan? ›

How to save an overwatered Tutsan? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Tutsan?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Hypericum androsaemum prefers partial sun to full shade. Ideally, it benefits from a balance of morning and late afternoon sunlight, which supports healthy growth and vibrant blooms, while safeguarding against the damaging effects of harsh midday sun.

What is the ideal light condition for Hypericum androsaemum? ›

How can I achieve these light conditions? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting for this plant? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Tutsan?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Hypericum androsaemum to thrive is between 60°F and 75°F. This range provides a stable environment that supports its growth cycle by ensuring adequate metabolic and photosynthetic activities. Maintaining these temperatures can help in achieving optimal foliage and flower production.

What Soil is Best for Tutsan?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Hypericum androsaemum thrives in well-drained soils that prevent waterlogging. This prevents root rot, ensuring healthy root development and promoting vigorous plant growth. This plant thrives in moderately fertile soils, meaning it doesn't require overly rich soil. This helps maintain balanced growth without promoting excessive foliage at the expense of flowers. The presence of organic matter improves soil structure and nutrient availability, supporting the robust growth of Hypericum androsaemum. It ensures the soil retains enough moisture without becoming compacted. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Tutsan?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Hypericum androsaemum, use a balanced all-purpose fertilizer. For liquid formulations, a concentration of 1 tablespoon per gallon of water is adequate. Use only half of the recommended dose mentioned on the fertilizer package for younger plants to prevent root burn. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Tutsan?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to keep the plant healthy. Use clean, sharp shears to make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle just above a leaf node. This encourages new growth and reduces the risk of infections. Once the unhealthy branches are removed, trim back the overgrown branches to shape the plant, promoting a bushier appearance. To maintain a compact and dense shape, you should focus on cutting back the longer stems. Cut these stems back to an outward-facing bud to encourage spreading rather than upward growth. This will help your Hypericum androsaemum maintain a balanced appearance. Also, thin out the center of the plant periodically to ensure good air circulation. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Tutsan plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Collect seeds from mature Hypericum androsaemum plants and sow them in a seed tray filled with a suitable growing medium. Cover lightly with soil and keep moist.

Choose a healthy stem from a parent plant, cut a 4-6 inch section using pruning shears, and remove the lower leaves. Place the cutting in a pot filled with moist rooting medium.

Gently dig up a mature plant and divide it into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots attached. Replant the divisions in prepared soil and water thoroughly.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Tutsan plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Hypericum androsaemum should be repotted when its roots are visibly growing out of the drainage holes, or when its growth appears stunted despite proper care. Early spring or autumn, when the plant is not in active bloom, are the best times to repot, allowing it to establish in new soil before winter or the next growing season.

Select a pot that is just one size larger than the current one, with adequate drainage holes. A slightly bigger pot keeps the soil from becoming waterlogged, reducing the likelihood of root rot. A terracotta pot is ideal as it allows excess moisture to evaporate, thus ensuring healthy root development.

Opt for a rich, well-draining potting mix that facilitates aeration while retaining essential moisture without waterlogging. A blend with compost or organic matter is beneficial as it provides necessary nutrients, promoting vigorous growth and healthy foliage.

Toxicity

ingestion

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.