JERUSALEM STAR

Jerusalem Star is also known as Aaron's Beard, and the Rose of Sharon. It is part of the family of St. John's Wort. Recently, studies published in the British Medical Journal suggest that St. John's Wort is as effective as any other conventional antidepressant and has very few side effects. In parts of Europe, it grows wild. Scientists have been studying it for decades. Doctors in Germany prescribe it for depression in liquid, capsules, and dried form, and insurance pays for it.

The name Aaron's-beard is applied to two well known, and frequently cultivated Saint-John's-worts. The first, (Hypericum Calycinum) is a Eurasian species that produces large yellow flowers. This is the one commonly called Rose of Sharon. The second is the great Saint-John's wort, (Hypericum Ascyron) an American species that bears enormous yellow flowers and grows to a height of about 6 feet. The flowers of the Jerusalem Star are perfectly beautiful, with five petals and numerous stamens that contrast with the dark green foliage as they bloom in late summer. The plant can grow a foot tall and spread to 1 1/2 feet to make an excellent ground cover.

Saint John’s Wort