How to Grow Hypericum Shrub - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Hypericum shrub is a plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a member of the Hypericaceae family and is closely related to the common Saint John's wort (Hypericum perforatum). The shrub has many branches and small, dark green leaves. The flowers are small and yellow, and they bloom in the summer. The fruit is a small, black berry.

How to Grow Hypericum Shrub - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Aaron's Rod
  • Goldenrod
  • Saint John's Wort
  • Tutsan
  • Witch Hazel

Basic info

  • scientific name: Hypericum shrub
  • common names: Hypericum bush, golden glow, Aaron's rod
  • native to: Europe, Asia, and Africa
  • hardy in zones: 3-9
  • height: 3-6 feet
  • spread: 2-4 feet
  • bloom time: June to September
  • bloom color: Yellow
  • light requirements: Full sun to partial shade
  • soil requirements: Well-drained, sandy soil

Related plant:
Hypericum Moserianum

Planting Process

  1. For hypericum shrub, first step is to choose a type of plant. You can either get a young plant from a nursery or grow your own from seed.
  2. If you are growing your own from seed, sow the seeds in a seed tray filled with a quality potting mix.
  3. Water the seedlings regularly and keep them in a warm, sunny spot.
  4. When the seedlings are big enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots.
  5. Choose a sunny spot in your garden to plant out the young hypericum shrubs.
  6. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the pot the shrub is currently in.
  7. Gently remove the shrub from its pot and place it in the hole.
  8. Backfill the hole with soil andWater the shrub well.
  9. Apply a mulch around the base of the shrub to help retain moisture.
  10. Once the shrub is established, water it regularly during periods of dry weather.

Related plant:
Hypericum Hidcote

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, hypericum shrub prefers well-drained soils but can also tolerate some seasonal wetness or even brief inundation. It is not as particular about soil type as long as it is not waterlogged. It will grow in sandy soils, loams, or clay loams, and does not mind a little salt.

About light

So, like the other plants, Hypericum shrubs need sunlight to grow. They require at least six hours of sunlight each day to thrive. If they don't get enough sunlight, they will become leggy and may not bloom as much.

The Temperature

The temperature conditions that are best for Hypericum shrubs are those that are cool and moist. They will do well in full sun or partial shade, but they will need some protection from the hot afternoon sun. These shrubs prefer a loamy soil that is well-drained, but they will tolerate most soil types as long as it is not too dry.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 40%. If the humidity goes below 30%, the leaves will start to dry out and fall off. If the humidity gets too high, the leaves will start to yellow and the plant will become stunted.

Fertilizing

The fertilizer, this type of plant needs, is high in phosphorus, which helps encourage blooming. It's important not to over fertilizer, because too much phosphorus can actually prevent blooming. The roots of a hypericum are relatively shallow, so be careful not to damage them when you're working in the garden.

About light

Pruning your hypericum shrub is important to maintaining its shape and preventing it from getting too large. You can prune your hypericum shrub in the spring or fall. To prune, start by removing any dead or damaged branches. Then, cut back any branches that are growing too long or that are rubbing against other branches. When you are finished pruning, your hypericum shrub should have a nice, even shape.

About Propagating

Propagation is typically done through stem cuttings taken from new growth in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and have several sets of leaves. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone before planting in well-drained, sandy soil. Keep the soil moist but not wet and provide bright, indirect light. You should see new growth within 6-8 weeks.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate is determined by the amount of sunlight the plant receives and the type of soil in which it is grown. In general, hypericum shrubs prefer full sun but will tolerate partial shade. They also prefer well-drained soils.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are a result of too much or too little water. If the plant is overwatered, the leaves will yellow and drop off. If the plant is underwatered, the leaves will wilt and the plant will eventually die. The best way to avoid these problems is to water the plant only when the soil is dry.

Basics of Growing

  • Make sure to plant your hypericum in an area that receives full sun.
  • Prepare the soil before planting by loosening it and adding some organic matter.
  • When planting, space the plants 3 to 4 feet apart.
  • Water the plants regularly, especially during dry periods.
  • Fertilize the plants regularly with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Prune the plants annually to shape them and encourage new growth.
  • Protect the plants from strong winds by staking them or planting them in a sheltered location.
  • Watch for aphids and other pests which can damage the plants. Treat them accordingly if found.
  • Harvest the flowers when they are fully open.
  • Enjoy your beautiful hypericum plants!

Related Plants

  • Hypericum acutum
  • Hypericum abrotanifolium
  • Hypericum abrotanoides
  • Hypericum acheilum
  • Hypericum adpressum
  • Hypericum africanum
  • Hypericum addictum
  • Hypericum affine
  • Hypericum africanum
  • Hypericum aethiopicum

Source:
Managing Pests in Gardens: Trees and Shrubs: Hypericum—UC IPM - ucanr.edu
Hypericum androsaemum | Landscape Plants | Oregon State …
Hypericum kouytchense | Landscape Plants - Oregon State …

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
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Shrubs Category