Hypericum prolificum
shrubN. America Native

Shrubby St. Johnswort

Hypericum prolificum

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

48 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived deciduous shrub

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Hypericum prolificum is a dense, mounding, deciduous shrub native to eastern and central North America, known for its profuse, bright yellow summer flowers. This species is exceptionally adaptable and low-maintenance, thriving in a wide range of soils and conditions while providing a long season of cheerful color and attracting pollinators.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesValued for its long bloom period of bright, cheerful yellow flowers from June to August. Its dense, twiggy structure and persistent seed capsules provide winter interest.
Practical UsesIts fibrous root system makes it an excellent choice for erosion control on slopes and banks. It is a tough, adaptable shrub for difficult sites like dry, rocky soils.
Ecological BenefitsThe flowers are a valuable source of pollen for a wide variety of native bees, including bumblebees and specialist pollinators. It provides cover for small wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Choose a location with full sun to part shade and well-drained soil.
  2. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
  3. Gently loosen the roots and place the plant in the hole.
  4. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
  5. Backfill with soil, firming gently around the base.
  6. Water thoroughly after planting and mulch to retain moisture.

Pro Tip

For the best flowering and densest form, provide at least six hours of direct sun daily.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly during the first year to establish a strong root system.
  • Prune back by about one-third in early spring to encourage bushy growth.
  • Allow soil to dry out between waterings once established.
  • Plant in groups for a stunning massed effect.

Don't

  • Don't plant in poorly drained, constantly wet soil to avoid root rot.
  • Avoid heavy fertilization, which can lead to weak, leggy growth.
  • Don't shear into a formal shape; allow its natural mounding habit.
  • Avoid overhead watering to minimize the risk of fungal diseases.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright pollinator-friendly borderTough naturalistic mass plantingLow-maintenance slope stabilizer

Companion Plants

Echinacea purpurea Panicum virgatum Rudbeckia fulgida Spiraea tomentosa Aronia arbutifolia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Shrubby St. Johnswort questions

What zones can Shrubby St. Johnswort grow in?

Shrubby St. Johnswort is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Shrubby St. Johnswort deer resistant?

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

When does Shrubby St. Johnswort bloom?

Shrubby St. Johnswort typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Shrubby St. Johnswort need full sun?

Shrubby St. Johnswort does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Shrubby St. Johnswort drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Shrubby St. Johnswort handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Shrubby St. Johnswort with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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