About
A group of deciduous hypericum varieties, semi-evergreen in mild winters, that form bushy shrubs to 1m tall. They all bear ovate, dark green leaves and cup-shaped yellow flowers with prominent stamens; they differ in the colour of their berries, which may be white, pink, orange or red depending on the cultivar. The berry-bearing stems can be cut for floral arrangements.
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 sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
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. May also be grown in a container, using a peat-free, loam-based potting compost
PruningSee pruning group 1 and 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)