Height at maturity
0,90 - 1,50 m
Wingspan at maturity
1 - 1,50 m
Exposure
Sun, partial shade
Flowering
July to September
St John’s wort 'Hidcote' – Hypericum 'Hidcote'
Introduction
St John’s wort 'Hidcote' is a refined ornamental hybrid originating from the renowned Hidcote Manor in the UK, derived from Asian Hypericum species. This semi-evergreen shrub exudes natural charm with its lush, rounded foliage and bright summer flowering, making it an ideal low-maintenance feature in mixed borders or structured landscapes.
Origins and characteristics
A garden hybrid created at Hidcote Manor from Asian Hypericum species.
Belongs to the Clusiaceae family.
Its bushy, dense habit and adaptability make it a staple in landscape design.
Description & highlights
- Mature height: 1–1.5 m
- Spread: 1–1.5 m
- Form: Rounded, compact, bushy
- Foliage: Semi‑evergreen (persistent in mild climates, deciduous in cold), dark green with bluish tones
- Flowering: July–September
- Flowers: Golden cups, 4–5 cm wide, rich in nectar and attractive to pollinators
- Fruits: Small red to black berries, ornamental but not edible
- Hardiness: Down to –20 °C
Exposure & soil
- Light: Sun to part shade; avoid scorching midday sun in the south
- Soil: All types, including poor, dry, rocky soils
- Tolerance: Drought-resistant once established; thrives in tough conditions
Planting
- When: Autumn (Oct–Dec) or Spring (Mar–Apr)
- Spacing: 80 cm–1 m for low hedges
- Preparation: Improve poor soils with light compost for healthy establishment
Watering
- After planting: Regular watering during the first year
- Later: Minimal care; water only during prolonged drought
Pruning
- When: Late winter/early spring (Feb–Mar)
- How:
- Cut back one‑third to one‑half to encourage flowering and compact growth
- Remove dead wood post‑winter
Propagation
- Cuttings: Semi‑woody summer cuttings
- Seeding: Rare due to slow, unpredictable germination
Garden uses
Ideal for:
- Shrub or mixed borders
- Flower edges and low hedges
- Rockeries and dry slopes
- Container culture on patios
- Wildlife-friendly gardens to attract pollinators
Pest & disease protection
Robust plant, though may occasionally suffer from rust or root rot in poorly drained soils
Best practice tips
- Plant in full sun for best bloom
- Avoid waterlogged conditions
- Light annual pruning supports branching and prolongs life
- Mulch in summer to reduce water loss
Features
-
Common name :
St John's wort
-
Family :
Clusiaceae
-
Spread :
1 - 1,50 m
-
Foliage :
half evergreen
-
Color of flowers :
yellow
-
Use :
isolated - shrubbery - hedge
-
Soil :
all
-
Habit :
Rounded
-
Growth :
Fast
-
Earth to use :
universal potting soil/garden soil/compost
-
Density per m² :
1
-
Enemies :
nothing to report
-
Possible diseases :
rust disease
-
Date of last repotting :
05/02/25
As soon as you place your order your plants are selected
Each order is processed individually.
Plants are packed, staked and labeled.
Packaging is carefully implemented to avoid any problems.
Packages are ready to be shipped.
