perennialN. America Native

Bedstraw St. John's Wort

Hypericum galioides

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate to wet

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southeastern United States

Toxicity

Can be toxic if ingested in large quantities

The Story

Plant Bio

Hypericum galioides, or Bedstraw St. John's Wort, is a small, deciduous to semi-evergreen shrub with dense, linear, needle-like leaves and bright yellow, 5-petaled flowers in summer. This species thrives in moist to wet, sandy or peaty soils and is excellent for stabilizing pond edges or for use in rain gardens. It is native to the southeastern United States.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Bright yellow flowers add cheerful color to sunny gardens, attracting pollinators.

Drought tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for sustainable landscapes.

Supports native pollinators and enhances biodiversity.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
Water regularly until established, then reduce frequency.
Transplant seedlings when they reach 4 inches tall.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-drained soil and full sun for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune lightly after flowering
Mulch to conserve moisture

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Avoid heavy fertilization
Don’t disturb roots when transplanting

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Plant
Propagate
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Sunny border with bright yellow accentsDrought-tolerant rock gardenWildflower meadow edge

Companion Plants

Lavender Coreopsis Sedum Echinacea Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bedstraw St. John's Wort questions

What zones can Bedstraw St. John's Wort grow in?

Bedstraw St. John's Wort is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Bedstraw St. John's Wort deer resistant?

Yes — Bedstraw St. John's Wort is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Bedstraw St. John's Wort bloom?

Bedstraw St. John's Wort typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Bedstraw St. John's Wort need full sun?

Bedstraw St. John's Wort does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.