About
A deciduous shrub to about 1.2m, with upright to arching shoots and narrow, oval leaves. Bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers, sometimes flushed red in bud, have conspicuous stamens and are followed by dark red, dry, berry-like fruits from late summer.
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
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing, North-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1-1.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toChina
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
CultivationGrows well in moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade
PruningPruning group 1 or pruning group 6
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to a rust and honey fungus (rarely)