Hypericum prolificum

RHS Plant Profile
paintbrush

Other common names

very fruitful St John's wort

Shrubs

A deciduous shrub to 1m tall, forming a mound of arching stems bearing dark green, lance-shaped leaves, and in midsummer, bright yellow flowers with a large, central boss of stamens. Mature plants develop main stems with peeling brown bark

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
2–5 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

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

Position

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

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Hypericaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
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
Correct
Plant Range
North America

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in any moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by softwood or semi-ripe cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Banks and slopes
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Ground cover

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to a rust and honey fungus (rarely)