Slender St John’s-Wort

(Hypericum pulchrum)

Slender St John’s-Wort (Hypericum pulchrum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Hypericum pulchrum, commonly known as Slender St John’s-wort, is a rhizomatous perennial herb native to heathlands, moorlands, and rocky upland regions across Western Europe. It avoids calcareous soils and is often found in acidic environments. This species typically grows 9-18 inches high and features smooth, erect stems with heart-shaped leaves that clasp the stem. The terminal inflorescence boasts rich yellow flowers with conspicuous black and red dots on the margins, blooming in the summer months. The flowers are showy and attract a variety of pollinators.

Slender St John’s-wort is appreciated for its ornamental qualities, including its vibrant flowers and compact growth habit, making it suitable for rock gardens, borders, and wildflower meadows. It is relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal care once established. It prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-drained, acidic soils. While not commonly used in cultivation, it can be a charming addition to naturalistic plantings. It is generally free from serious pests and diseases but can be susceptible to rust. In some areas outside its native range, it can become invasive, so gardeners should monitor its spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to heathlands, moorlands, and rocky upland regions across Western Europe, avoiding calcareous soils

Other Names

Common Names: Slender St John’s Wort, Graceful St John’s Wort, Beautiful St John’s Wort

Scientific Names: , Hypericum pulchrum, Adenosepalum pulchrum, Hypericopsis pulchra, Hypericum amplexicaule, Hypericum elegantissimum, Hypericum pulchrum f. procumbens, Hypericum pulchrum var. filicaule, Hypericum pulchrum var. gillotii, Hypericum pulchrum var. pallidum

GBIF Accepted Name: