Hypericum calycinum, also known as Rose of Sharon, Aaron's beard, and Creeping St. John's wort is an oft used perennial ground cover plant.
This Hypericum plant is valued for its bright yellow flowers and blue-green leaves. Plants typically reach a height of 1 to 1.5 feet (0.3 to 0.45 m), with a spread of 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 m).
This plant is favored for its fast growth, ability to thrive in difficult areas, and its use as an effective ground cover.
It flourishes in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9; RHS H5.
How to Grow Hypericum calycinum in the Garden
Hypericum calycinum prefers a full sun to part shade position. It requires a well-drained soil, but this can be of any type. That said, it performs best in a moderately fertile loam.
Plant it at the same depth as the rootball during the spring or fall. Water thoroughly once planted.
While it is drought-tolerant once established, it greatly benefits from regular watering during dry spells. Feed with a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. This will encourage robust growth.
Prune back hard in late winter or early spring. This will help to maintain shape, and also encourage fresh growth.
Watch out for potential pests such as scale insects, and diseases such as rust. Providing good air circulation can help maintain plant health.
The ground cover plant Hypericum calycinum can add a burst of sunny color to the garden, and can be a lively addition to borders, rock gardens, and tricky slopes.
Quick Hypericum calycinum Growing and Care Guide
Scientific Name: Hypericum calycinum.
Common Name(s): Rose of Sharon, Aaron's beard, Creeping St. John's wort.
Growing Zone (USA / UK Hardiness): USDA Zones: 5-9. RHS hardiness H5, hardy throughout the UK.
Best Used For / Garden Location: Ground cover, borders, naturalized areas.
Plant Details
Life Cycle / Plant Type: Perennial.
Plant Height: 1-1.5 ft (0.3-0.45 m).
Plant Spread: 1.5-2 ft (0.45-0.6 m).
Blooms: Summer.
Flower Details: Bright yellow flowers with prominent stamens.
Leaf Foliage: Oval, rich green leaves.
Fruit: Insignificant.
Growing Conditions and Location
Best Light Conditions: Full sun to part shade.
Suitable Soil Types: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil.
Sowing / planting: Sow seeds in containers in a cold frame in spring.
Germination time: 1-2 months at 60-68°F (15-20°C).
Propagation: Semi-hardwood cuttings in summer.
Plant Care: Low maintenance; prune in early spring if necessary.
Growing in pots and containers: Suitable for containers; ensure good drainage.
Growing as a House plant: Not typically grown as a houseplant.
Further Information
Miscellaneous: Resistant to deer; may become invasive in some regions.
Pests and diseases: Susceptible to rust and fungal leaf spots.
Common Cultivars / Varieties: There are no significant cultivars of this species.
Family: Hypericaceae, the St. John's wort family.
Native: Southeast Europe to Turkey.
References and Further Reading: RHS: Rose of Sharon; Missouri Botanical Garden:: Hypericum calycinum; The Jepson Herbarium: Aaron's Beard.
Common Questions
Does Hypericum calycinum make a good garden or landscaping plant?
Hypericum calycinum is an excellent ground cover plant for gardens and landscapes. It provides dense foliage and bright yellow flowers for a sunny visual interest.
Is Hypericum calycinum fragrant ?
Hypericum calycinum is not really known for its fragrance. The appeal of this plant lies in its cheery vibrant flowers, and its ability to cover ground rapidly.
What is the perfect location to grow Hypericum calycinum?
Hypericum calycinum plants thrive in full sun to partial shade locations, and prefers well-drained soil. It's a hardy, adaptable plant, tolerating a variety of soil conditions and is resistant to drought.
Is it invasive in the USA, if so in which states?
Though naturalized in some parts of the USA, Aaron's beard is considered invasive in many areas of the Pacific Northwest and the Northeast USA. Always check local regulations before planting it.
How do I remove Rose of Sharon from my garden?
To remove Rose of Sharon, first prune it back, then dig out as much of the root system as possible. Monitor the area for regrowth and remove new sprouts promptly.
Summary
Hypericum calycinum is a perennial shrub that grows in a variety of soils but prefers full sun to partial shade. Its yellow flowers bloom in summer, making it a vibrant addition to any garden.
I hope that you have enjoyed reading this guide on how to grow Hypericum calycinum. You may also enjoy the following growing guides: How to grow Creeping Thyme, Waldsteinia Ternata, and Lamium plants in the garden, and carry out Front Yard Landscaping with Jasmine.
