Shrubby St.-John’s-wort
Hypericum prolificum
Photo courtesy Alan Cressler, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Summary
One of over 400 species of Hypericum, this absolute ‘bee magnet’ has a compact, mounding habit, dark green leaves, and bright yellow flowers. The species name prolificum is a clue to the appearance of the 5- petaled flowers, which are ‘prolific’ indeed, having many stamens. It spreads by rhizomes, but does so slowly and is easily kept under control. It’s largely deer-resistant and is juglone-tolerant. While it will grow in many conditions, full sun and regular moisture will produce the best blooms.
More Details
FAMILY
Clusiaceae (Mangosteen)
BLOOM TIME
June, July, August
FLOWER
Yellow
MATURE SIZE
To 3 feet
LIGHT REQUIREMENT
Sun to part shade
SOIL CONDITIONS
Dry, Moist
NATIVE STATUS
PA Native
Ecosystem Connections
A special favorite of bumble bees, Shrubby St John’s wort is highly attractive to many bees, butterflies and other pollinators. The foliage is a host plant for several moth caterpillars and the gray hairstreak butterfly, and the fruits are enjoyed by birds.
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