Hypericum sp.

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Hypericum is a large and varied genus of 400 species of annuals, perennials, shrubs and a few small trees, some evergreen but mostly deciduous, grown for their showy flowers in shades of yellow with a central mass of prominent golden stamens.

Hypericum sp. (St John Wort) is an excellent choice for a shrub border. It is a large shrub, growing 5-10 feet tall and produces bright yellow or orange flowers in summer and fall. If the flowers are deadheaded, they will continue to bloom throughout the season. In colder regions, they are small plants growing 2-5 feet tall but still producing a flurry of yellow and orange flowers.

When growing St John Wort, it needs full sun to partial shade and regular water. In hotter climates, it prefers partial shade and moderate water. The plant also has ethnomedical properties in many traditional medicines, and so can be a great addition to gardens that are both ornamental and medicinal.

St John Wort is also a great choice for attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. The bright and showy flowers, combined with its long blooming period make it a great choice for gardens aiming to attract these creatures.

Similar plants:

• Cratoxylum cochinchinense, Hypericum cochinchinense (Yellow Cow Wood, Kayu Arang, Kemutong, Tree-Avens)