Overview
Hypericum perforatum is a clump forming herbaceous perennial in the genus Hypericum, part of the Hypericaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Hypericum perforatum grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is attractive to pollinators. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildflower meadow and wildlife gardens. It is native to Europe, N Africa and SW Asia.
About
This upright perennial typically reaches a height of around 1 meter. It features small, narrow, oval leaves that are mid-green and adorned with translucent dots resembling perforations. In summer, it produces broad, pyramid-shaped clusters of star-shaped yellow flowers, each measuring up to 2 centimeters across.
About the genus
Hypericum includes a variety of growth forms such as annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees. These plants can be either evergreen or deciduous. They typically feature paired leaves and produce bright yellow flowers that have noticeable stamens. After flowering, they develop capsules, which may sometimes resemble berries.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Hypericum
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Hypericum perforatum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Europe, N Africa, SW Asia
- Toxicity
- Fruit 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
Pruning and caring for Hypericum perforatum
- Cultivation
- Grows well in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. Ideal for wildflower garden, wild garden or informal borders
- Pruning
- No pruning required other than a tidy before spring growth commences
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed, division or take softwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Hypericum perforatum?
Grows well in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. Ideal for wildflower garden, wild garden or informal borders.
Where is the best place to plant Hypericum perforatum?
Hypericum perforatum prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Hypericum perforatum need?
Hypericum perforatum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Hypericum perforatum?
No pruning required other than a tidy before spring growth commences.
How big does Hypericum perforatum grow?
Hypericum perforatum reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Hypericum perforatum hardy in the UK?
Hypericum perforatum has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Hypericum perforatum?
Propagate by seed, division or take softwood cuttings.
Is Hypericum perforatum good for pollinators?
Yes — Hypericum perforatum attracts and supports pollinators such as bees and other beneficial insects.
Is Hypericum perforatum toxic?
Fruit 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.