About
An evergreen shrub to 30cm tall, spreading by runners. The arching, woody stems bear slender, dark green leaves with irregular, yellow-green margins; the new growth is bronze-flushed. In summer it produces buttercup yellow flowers at the stem tips.
About the genus
Hypericum can be annuals, perennials, shrubs or trees, evergreen or deciduous, with usually paired leaves and showy yellow flowers with prominent stamens, followed by capsules, occasionally berry-like
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitSuckering
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesSpecimen planting, large borders, parkland settings.
ToxicityFruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Drought tolerant once established. May have the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well
PruningSee pruning group 6
PropagationPropagate by softwood or semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a rust and honey fungus (rarely)