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Hypericum calycinum

rose of Sharon

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

Other common names
Aaron's beard
large-flowered St John's wort
see moreResurrection plant
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Yellow Green
Autumn Green Black Red
Winter Yellow Green
Position
  • Full shade
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or North–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Hypericaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen or 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)

Get involved

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