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Herbaceous Perennial

Hypericum perforatum
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

perforate St John's wort

A clump-forming, upright perennial to about 1m tall, the small, narrow oval mid-green leaves with translucent dots that give the appearance of perforations, and broad, pyramid-shaped terminal clusters of star-shaped yellow flowers to 2cm across, in summer

Other common names
cammock
common St John's wort
see moredevil chaser
devil's flight
devil's scourge
God's wonder plant
herb John
human blood
Klamath weed
penny John
rosin rose
St Columba's flower
Synonyms
Hypericum lineolatum
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Yellow Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Hypericaceae
Native to the UK
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
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, SW Asia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grows well in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or part shade. Ideal for wildflower garden, wild garden or informal borders

Propagation

Propagate by seed, division or take softwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required other than a tidy before spring growth commences

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)

Get involved

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