St. John's Wort, Hidcote
Hypericum x hidcoteense 'Hidcote' (St. John's Wort)Hypericum x hidcoteense ‘Hidcote’, commonly known as St. John’s Wort ‘Hidcote’, is a compact, semi-evergreen shrub admired for its vibrant golden-yellow flowers and lush foliage. Blooming from early summer to early fall, its saucer-shaped flowers feature five petals surrounding a tuft of golden stamens, creating a striking display. The foliage consists of rich blue-green, narrowly ovate leaves that provide a lovely backdrop for the bright blossoms. Growing 2–5 feet tall and wide, this shrub is perfect for borders, slopes, or cottage gardens. It is deer-resistant and low-maintenance, making it a reliable choice for gardeners.
Thriving in USDA zones 5–9, St. John’s Wort ‘Hidcote’ prefers full sun to partial shade and grows well in moist, well-drained soils. It tolerates a wide range of soil types, including dry, rocky, or sandy soils, and is drought-tolerant once established. In colder climates, it may die back to the ground in winter but regrows vigorously in spring. This shrub blooms on new growth, so pruning in late winter or early spring encourages fresh flowers. Its compact size and dense growth habit make it suitable for mass plantings, hedges, or as a specimen plant.
Care Instructions
- Light Requirements: Plant in full sun to partial shade for optimal flowering.
- Soil Needs: Prefers moist, well-drained soils; tolerates dry, rocky, or sandy conditions.
- Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots; drought-tolerant once established.
- Pruning: Cut back in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and blooms.
- Spacing: Space plants 2–5 feet apart to allow for mature growth and air circulation.
- Winter Care: In colder climates, treat as a herbaceous perennial and cut back to the ground in winter.
St. John’s Wort ‘Hidcote’ combines beauty, resilience, and versatility, making it a standout choice for landscapes. Its vibrant flowers, adaptability, and ease of care ensure it enhances gardens with minimal effort. Whether used in borders, slopes, or cottage gardens, this shrub adds bright summer color and ecological value.
