About

Hypericum androsaemum, tutsan, is a bushy, deciduous shrub to 75 cm with upright branches and paired, oval leaves. Heads of up to 11 small, cupped, yellow flowers appear in midsummer, followed by long-lasting dry, berry-like fruits that mature from red to black. A useful and ornamental shrub for a partly shaded border.

About the genus

Hypericum, the St John's worts, are annuals, perennials, shrubs or trees, evergreen or deciduous, with usually paired leaves and showy, five-petalled, yellow flowers with prominent stamens, followed by capsular or berry-like fruits. An enormously versatile genus for sun and shade in well-drained soils.

Plant details

Suggested usesBedding, containers, hanging baskets.

Care notes

CultivationPlant out after last frost in fertile, well-drained soil.
PruningDeadhead regularly to prolong flowering.
PropagationGrow from seed sown in spring.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.