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(Hypericum olympicum)
Mount Olympus St. John’s Wort (Hypericum olympicum)
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C T Johansson
CC BY-SA 3.0
Image By:
C T Johansson
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CC BY-SA 3.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: C T Johansson | License Type: CC BY-SA 3.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 | Uploader: Christer T Johansson | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Hypericum_adenophyllum-IMG_4797.jpg | Notes: Transferred from Flickr via [[Commons:Flickr2Commons|Flickr2Commons]] |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Hypericum olympicum, commonly known as Mount Olympus St. John’s Wort, is a deciduous subshrub native to rocky slopes and scrubland in the Balkan Peninsula. This species is part of the Hypericaceae family and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value, particularly for its large, yellow, showy flowers which bloom from June to August and are significantly larger than those of most other species in the genus Hypericum. The plant typically grows to a height of 0.1–0.55 meters (0.33–1.80 ft) and can adopt an erect, decumbent, or rarely prostrate growth habit. Its foliage is a dense, blue-green that contrasts beautifully with the bright flowers, adding to its appeal in garden settings.
Mount Olympus St. John’s Wort is valued for its ease of maintenance and drought tolerance once established. It is often used in rock gardens, borders, and as ground cover. The species thrives in full sun and requires medium amounts of water, preferring well-drained soils that can range from mildly acidic to mildly alkaline. It is relatively slow-growing, taking 5–10 years to reach full height, but reaches maturity more quickly. For propagation, cuttings should be taken from May to July. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to rust and root rot in poorly drained soils. Due to its showy flowers and resilience, it has become a popular choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance yet visually striking plant.CC BY-SA 4.0
Mount Olympus St. John’s Wort is valued for its ease of maintenance and drought tolerance once established. It is often used in rock gardens, borders, and as ground cover. The species thrives in full sun and requires medium amounts of water, preferring well-drained soils that can range from mildly acidic to mildly alkaline. It is relatively slow-growing, taking 5–10 years to reach full height, but reaches maturity more quickly. For propagation, cuttings should be taken from May to July. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to rust and root rot in poorly drained soils. Due to its showy flowers and resilience, it has become a popular choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance yet visually striking plant.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Subshrub
- Height: 0.9-1.5 feet
- Width: 0.6-1 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Rocky slopes and scrubland in the Balkan Peninsula
Other Names
Common Names: Romersk Johannesört, Olympjohannesört
Scientific Names: , Hypericum olympicum, Hypericum olympicum f. minus, Hypericum dimoniei, Hypericum olympicum var. coronense, Hypericum olympicum var. latifolium, Androsaemum adenophyllum, Hypericum adenophyllum, Hypericum olympicum f. majus, Hypericum olympicum var. dimoniei
GBIF Accepted Name: Hypericum olympicum L.