Hypericum calycinum

RHS Plant Profile
rose of Sharon

Other common names

Aaron's beard, large-flowered St John's wort, Resurrection plant

Shrubs

A fast-growing, spreading groundcover shrub with evergreen to semi-evergreen long, oval-shaped dark green leaves. Bright yellow, five petalled flowers bloom throughout summer and into autumn. Height is 60cm with a spread of 1.2m or more. The red berries turn black in autumn

Position

Full shade, Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

1-1.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 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 shade Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or North–facing or West–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
No
Foliage
Evergreen, Semi evergreen
Habit
Suckering
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
S Europe, SW Asia

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows well in moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Ideal for under trees. May have the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
  • Banks and slopes
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Ground cover
  • Wall side borders

Pruning

Pruning group 8

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

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