Pollination Information for Albury Purple St. Johnswort (Hypericum x 'Albury Purple')

The Albury Purple St. Johnswort is a shrub that belongs to the Hypericum family. This plant produces beautiful purple flowers that are 2-3 inches in diameter and bloom in the summer.

When it comes to pollination, the Albury Purple St. Johnswort is a perfect example of a self-sterile plant. This means that the plant cannot fertilize its own flowers and relies on external pollinators for reproduction.

The Albury Purple St. Johnswort is a bee-friendly plant and attracts several bee species such as honeybees, bumblebees, and solitary bees. These bees are attracted to the plant's bright purple flowers and the nectar and pollen they produce.

The plant's flowers are hermaphroditic, which means they have both male and female reproductive organs. The pollen produced by the male organs is collected by the bees, and when they move on to another flower, they transfer the pollen to the female organs, thus fertilizing the flower and allowing for the production of seeds.

Therefore, bees are vital for the pollination and survival of the Albury Purple St. Johnswort. Without bees, the plant would not be able to produce seeds and reproduce, leading to its eventual extinction.

Albury Purple St. Johnswort (Hypericum x 'Albury Purple') FAQ

General Information

• What is Albury Purple St. Johnswort?
  Albury Purple St. Johnswort is a shrub in the Hypericum genus, with striking purple flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer.
• Where does Albury Purple St. Johnswort originate from?
  Albury Purple St. Johnswort is a hybrid plant and does not occur naturally in the wild. It was developed by crossing Hypericum calycinum and Hypericum androsaemum.
• What are the optimal growing conditions for Albury Purple St. Johnswort?
  Albury Purple St. Johnswort grows best in full or partial sun in well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and can also survive in acidic soil. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
• How big does Albury Purple St. Johnswort grow?
  Albury Purple St. Johnswort typically grows up to 3 feet in height and 4 feet in width, though it can be trimmed to maintain a smaller size.

Care and Maintenance

• How often should I water Albury Purple St. Johnswort?
  During the growing season, Albury Purple St. Johnswort should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought. However, overwatering should be avoided as the plant can be susceptible to root rot.
• When should I fertilize Albury Purple St. Johnswort?
  Albury Purple St. Johnswort should be fertilized in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Additional fertilizing may be necessary throughout the growing season if the plant shows signs of nutrient deficiency.
• How do I prune Albury Purple St. Johnswort?
  Albury Purple St. Johnswort can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Dead or damaged branches should be removed, and the plant can be shaped as desired.
• Does Albury Purple St. Johnswort require any special care in the winter?
  Albury Purple St. Johnswort is generally hardy and can tolerate freezing temperatures, though it may require additional protection in extremely cold climates. Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plant in late fall can help insulate the roots during the winter months.

Pests and Diseases

• What pests are common to Albury Purple St. Johnswort?
  Albury Purple St. Johnswort is generally resistant to most pests, though it may be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mild insecticidal soap.
• What diseases are common to Albury Purple St. Johnswort?
  Albury Purple St. Johnswort may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These can be prevented by providing adequate air circulation and watering the plant at the base to avoid wetting the foliage.

Planting & Care for Albury Purple St. Johnswort

Albury Purple St. Johnswort, also known as Hypericum x 'Albury Purple', is a low-maintenance shrub that produces vibrant purple flowers in the summertime. Here are some tips on how to plant and care for this beautiful plant:

Planting:

• Choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
• Plant the shrub in the springtime after the last frost has passed.
• Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball, and amend the soil with compost or organic matter.
• Place the root ball in the hole and backfill with soil, making sure the plant is level with the ground.
• Water the plant thoroughly.
• Space multiple Albury Purple St. Johnswort shrubs 2 to 3 feet apart.

Care:

• Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
• Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Prune the shrub in the early spring or late winter to maintain its shape and remove dead or diseased wood.
• Albury Purple St. Johnswort is generally pest and disease-resistant, but keep an eye out for aphids or spider mites.
• Overwintering Albury Purple St. Johnswort can be tricky in colder climates. Apply a layer of mulch around the plant to protect the roots from freezing.

With proper care, Albury Purple St. Johnswort can be a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape. Its bright purple blooms and low-maintenance nature make it a popular choice among gardeners.