About
Hypericum revolutum is a half-hardy, semi-evergreen shrub to 3 m with reddish-brown shoots and pairs of elliptic leaves with a distinctive curry-like fragrance when crushed. Cup-shaped, yellow flowers with prominent tufts of stamens are produced from summer to autumn, though it can be shy-flowering in cool climates. Best grown in a very sheltered, sunny position or cool greenhouse.
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, West-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toSW 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 or 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)