About
Hypericum calycinum, rose of Sharon, is a fast-growing, spreading, evergreen to semi-evergreen ground-cover shrub with long, oval, dark-green leaves. Bright-yellow, five-petalled flowers bloom throughout summer into autumn, followed by red berries turning black. A highly effective and ornamental ground-cover for sun or shade, even under trees.
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
Soil typeSand, Loam, Chalk
Soil pHNeutral, Alkaline
Soil moistureWell-drained, Moist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAlpine Rockery, Shrubs
HabitBushy, Clump forming
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toAlps to N Italy
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 well-drained soil in full sun. Ideal for rock garden, gravel and scree gardens. Avoid exposed areas with cold, drying winds
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by seed in autumn or semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a rust