Hypericum × inodorum 'Elstead'

RHS Plant Profile
St John's wort 'Elstead'
St John's wort 'Elstead' RHS 1997

Synonyms

Hypericum elatum 'Elstead'

Shrubs

A semi-evergreen or deciduous shrub to 1.2m tall, with broadly ovate, aromatic, dark green leaves, and bearing clusters of star-shaped yellow flowers from midsummer to autumn, followed by large, showy dark red fruits flushed pinkish-red on ripening

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

1-1.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
5–10 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Fragrance Foliage
Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Hypericaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
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
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
Name Status
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows well in moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Banks and slopes
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Ground cover

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to a rust