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Hypericum forrestii

Forrest St John's wort

A small, semi-evergreen shrub with ovate leaves which turn orange and red in winter. Flowers saucer-shaped, to 5cm in width, clear yellow

Synonyms
Hypericum patulum var. forrestii

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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 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 Yellow Green
Winter Orange Red
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

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

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Hypericaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
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
China to NE Myanmar

How to grow

Cultivation

Grows well in moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in containers in autumn or by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
  • Banks and slopes
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Hedging and screens
Pruning

Pruning group 1 or pruning group 6

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

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

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