Hypericum androsaemum

RHS Plant Profile
tutsan

Other common names

balm of the warrior's wounds, park leaves, sweet amber, dail y fendigaid

Synonyms

Hypericum androsaemum 'Tutsan'
Androsaemum officinale

Shrubs

A bushy, deciduous shrub to 75cm with upright branches and paired oval leaves. Heads of up to 11 small, cupped, yellow flowers appear in midsummer, followed by long-lasting dry, berry-like fruits that mature through red to black

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 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
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Hypericaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
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
Europe, N. Africa W Asia

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows easily in most soils and situations

Propagation

Propagate by seed and semi-hardwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Banks and slopes
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Pruning group 6

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

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