How to Grow Hypericum
Wikimedia Commons
Hypericum
Hypericum spp.
shrubHypericum, commonly known as St. John's Wort or Aaron's Beard, is a diverse genus of flowering shrubs and subshrubs valued for their cheerful yellow flowers and ornamental red or orange berries. These hardy, low-maintenance plants are prized in landscapes for their long season of interest, ranging from summer blooms to autumn fruit displays.
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Example Hypericum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Hypericum
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Hypericum
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Most varieties thrive in zones 5-9; some hardy types tolerate zones 3-4
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Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny emerging seedlings with first true leaves appearing
Keep soil moist but not soggy; provide bright indirect light; thin crowded seedlings to prevent damping off
Establishment
3-6 monthsYoung plants developing branching structure and establishing root system
Water regularly; apply balanced fertilizer monthly; protect from extreme heat in first year; stake if necessary
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsPlant develops dense foliage and branching framework; leaves are typically opposite and elliptic
Prune lightly to shape; maintain consistent moisture; fertilize monthly with balanced or low-nitrogen formula; mulch around base
Flowering
3-4 monthsPlant produces abundant small yellow flowers (occasionally pink or red in some species) typically in flat-topped clusters
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming; reduce nitrogen fertilizer; maintain adequate water; flowers typically appear June-September
Fruiting & Maturity
2-4 months (berries may persist longer)Yellow flowers fade and ornamental berries develop, turning red, orange, or burgundy; berries persist into fall and winter
Allow berries to develop for ornamental interest and wildlife food; prune out dead or crossing canes in late winter; reduce fall watering as growth slows
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick beetles in early morning; prune out heavily infested stems; apply insecticidal soap for severe infestations
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Increase humidity with overhead watering; spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if population becomes severe
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Spray with strong water stream; apply insecticidal soap; introduce ladybugs or lacewings
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Ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering; remove and destroy heavily affected plants; improve soil aeration
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Improve air circulation by pruning; apply sulfur dust or fungicide; water at soil level, not foliage
Uses
Traditional herbal remedy
MedicinalHypericum perforatum (St. John's Wort) has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to support mood and emotional well-being. Modern research has documented its active compounds, though consultation with healthcare providers is recommended before use. [source]
Cut flowers and floral arranging
HouseholdHypericum branches with colorful berries are prized by florists and flower arrangers for adding texture, color, and longevity to both fresh and dried arrangements. The persistent berries make stems useful in fall and winter designs. [source]
Wildlife food and habitat
WildlifeThe bright berries attract birds, particularly thrushes and waxwings, making Hypericum valuable for wildlife gardens. The dense foliage provides shelter for small creatures throughout the growing season. [source]
Herbal tea and infusions
CulinarySt. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) flowers and leaves are traditionally dried and brewed into a mild herbal tea, though potency and safety vary by preparation method and individual health considerations. [source]
Dried flower crafts
CraftHypericum stems with berries dry beautifully and retain their color well, making them ideal for dried floral arrangements, wreaths, and other botanical crafts with excellent longevity. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
For ornamental use, cut berry-laden stems in fall for indoor arrangements and dried flower displays; berries typically color by September and persist into winter. Cut flowers are short-lived; use at full bloom stage and condition immediately in water. Berries are best harvested after the first frost when color is fully developed.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Hypericum perforatum earned the common name 'St. John's Wort' because it traditionally flowers around the feast day of Saint John the Baptist (June 24th), making it historically associated with midsummer celebrations and rituals.
- 🌱 Some Hypericum species produce a red dye when crushed, historically used to color cloth, and the plants contain hypericin—a compound that fluoresces red under ultraviolet light.
- 🌱 Hypericum is remarkably resilient and can be found naturalized across multiple continents; some species are considered invasive weeds in certain regions due to their ability to spread rapidly and suppress other vegetation.
Gardening Terms
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