How to Grow Hypericum 'Orange Passion'
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Hypericum 'Orange Passion'
Hypericum androsaemum 'Orange Passion'
shrubA deciduous to semi-evergreen ornamental shrub prized for its vibrant orange-red berries that persist from summer through fall. The plant produces small yellow flowers in mid-summer followed by eye-catching fruit that transitions from green to orange-red. It's excellent for cut flower arrangements and adds long-lasting color to garden borders.
When should you plant Hypericum 'Orange Passion' in your zone?
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Example Hypericum 'Orange Passion' timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Hypericum 'Orange Passion'
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 'Orange Passion'
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Hypericum 'Orange Passion' dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 6-8, hardy to zone 5b
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Get my Hypericum 'Orange Passion' timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
3-4 weeks after plantingYoung shrub with fresh green foliage establishing root system
Water regularly to establish. Avoid heavy fertilizing. Mulch around base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Vegetative Growth
Spring to early summerRapid stem and leaf development; shrub fills out and becomes bushier
Pinch back growing tips in early spring to encourage branching. Water consistently. Light fertilizing with balanced fertilizer in spring.
Flowering
Mid-June to AugustDelicate small yellow flowers appear in clusters on branch tips
Continue regular watering. Flowers are short-lived but prolific. Light deadheading promotes repeat blooming.
Fruiting
August through NovemberFlowers fade and are replaced by developing berries; fruit transitions from green to brilliant orange-red
Maintain consistent moisture for best berry development. Do not deadhead—this allows fruit to set. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer which reduces fruiting.
Dormancy
December through FebruaryFoliage may brown or drop; colorful berries persist on bare or semi-bare branches
Minimal watering needed. Berries provide ornamental value through winter. Prune out dead wood in early spring before new growth.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap if severe. Increase humidity around plants.
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Improve air circulation by pruning; remove affected leaves. Apply sulfur or copper fungicide in wet conditions.
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Hand-pick if few; use neem oil or spinosad for larger infestations. Generally not life-threatening.
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Prune out heavily infested branches. Apply horticultural oil in dormant season or use insecticidal soap.
Uses
Edible Berries for Culinary Use
CulinaryThe berries are edible and have been traditionally used in herbal teas and medicinal preparations, though they have a slightly bitter flavor. Some cooks incorporate them into jams or cordials, though the culinary use is limited compared to medicinal applications. [source]
Herbal Tea and Traditional Medicine
MedicinalHypericum species have been used in traditional herbalism for centuries to support mood and emotional well-being. The berries and leaves can be dried and brewed into herbal tea with mild sedative properties. [source]
Cut Flowers and Arrangements
HouseholdThe berry-laden stems are highly valued by florists and arrangers for their vibrant color and exceptional vase life (2-3 weeks). Widely used in seasonal arrangements, especially for fall and winter displays. [source]
Dried Arrangements and Crafts
CraftBerry stems dry beautifully and retain their orange-red color, making them ideal for dried floral arrangements, wreaths, and fall decorations. Long-lasting both indoors and outdoors. [source]
Wildlife Food and Bird Attraction
WildlifeThe persistent berries provide important food for songbirds and other wildlife during fall and early winter when other food sources are scarce. The yellow flowers attract pollinators including bees. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest berry-laden stems when berries reach full orange-red color (September-October) for cut arrangements. Cut stems just above a leaf node with sharp pruners. Berries last 2-3 weeks in arrangements. For dried arrangements, harvest and allow to air-dry for 2-3 weeks in a dark location.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Hypericum' derives from Greek words 'hyper' (over) and 'eikon' (image), as the plant was historically hung over religious images for protection.
- 🌱 Hypericum berries are commercially cultivated and sold globally by florists; they are a major cut flower crop in Europe and North America.
- 🌱 The berries change color as they mature—starting green, turning red, and finally deepening to orange-red—providing months of ornamental interest on a single stem.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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