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Trailing St John's wort

Hypericum humifusum · Hypericaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant trailing st john's wort: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Family
Hypericaceae
Type
Perennial herb
Foliage
Deciduous to semi-evergreen
Blooming
June to September, yellow flowers
Mature size
15 to 30 cm tall, spreading habit
Growth
Fast
Hardiness
Very hardy, down to -20°C
Origin
Temperate Europe and Asia

Care

Exposure and Light

Creeping St. John's wort prefers full sun or partial shade to flower generously. It tolerates semi-shaded areas well but produces fewer flowers in such conditions. Avoid full shade, which reduces blooming and can weaken the plant.

Soil and Planting

This species adapts to many soil types, including poor and well-drained soils. It thrives in sandy or rocky terrain and requires no particular fertility. Avoid constantly waterlogged soils, which promote root rot.

Watering

Once established, this perennial is undemanding regarding water. Water moderately during growth, then space out watering during dry periods. Slightly dry soil suits it perfectly; water only if the soil is truly dried out.

Fertilizer and Nutrition

Creeping St. John's wort requires only limited nutrients. A light addition of organic matter in spring is quite sufficient. Avoid overly rich fertilizers, which promote foliage at the expense of flowering.

Pruning and Maintenance

Remove old wood or damaged parts in late winter or early spring. Light deadheading of spent flowers encourages prolonged blooming. This plant naturally forms a compact, spreading habit without major intervention.

Diseases and Pests

Creeping St. John's wort is generally very resistant to diseases and pests. In overly humid areas, root rot may occasionally occur. Good air circulation and proper soil drainage effectively prevent these problems.

Did you know?

The Hypericum genus is rich in history: during the Middle Ages, various St. John's wort species were revered for their supposed spiritual protective properties and hung on doors during Midsummer. Creeping St. John's wort, this humble spreading species, shares this symbolic heritage with its taller cousins while remaining an excellent, robust, and reliable Mediterranean groundcover.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.