About
Hypericum bellum is a semi-evergreen, densely branched shrub with arching stems to 1 m and broadly ovate to almost circular, wavy-edged leaves. Golden-yellow, cup-shaped flowers to 3.5 cm across are produced at stem tips above the foliage from early summer into autumn. A rewarding and ornamental St John's wort for a sunny or 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.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesSpecimen planting, large borders, parkland settings.
Native toPakistan to China
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 moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade
PruningSee pruning group 1 and pruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by softwood or semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a rust and honey fungus (rarely)