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Hypericum prolificum

paintbrush

A deciduous shrub to 1m tall, forming a mound of arching stems bearing dark green, lance-shaped leaves, and in midsummer, bright yellow flowers with a large, central boss of stamens. Mature plants develop main stems with peeling brown bark

Other common names
very fruitful St John's wort

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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 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
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Yellow Green
Autumn Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

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

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Hypericaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
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
North America

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in any moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by softwood or semi-ripe cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Banks and slopes
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Ground cover
Pruning

See pruning group 1 and pruning group 6

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

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

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