Hypericum x hidcoteense 'Hidcote'

Common name: St John's Wort Hidcote

Description: This popular semi-evergreen shrub produces a profusion of large, golden-yellow cup-shaped flowers throughout summer and into autumn. Each flower, measuring up to 7cm across, features prominent stamens that create a central boss of golden threads, adding to the ornamental effect. The oval, dark green leaves provide an attractive backdrop to the bright blooms. 'Hidcote' forms a rounded, bushy habit and is remarkably free-flowering, with new blooms continuously appearing over many weeks. The flowers are followed by decorative bronze-red seed capsules in autumn. This tough, reliable shrub requires minimal maintenance and performs well even in challenging conditions.

Other benefits: long flowering period (June to October), low maintenance, tolerates pollution, good for coastal gardens

Wildlife attraction: bees, butterflies, other pollinators

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 1.2m x 1.2m

Position: best in full sun to partial shade; flowers most prolifically in full sun

Soil pH: adaptable to most soils; thrives in neutral to slightly alkaline conditions

Moisture: moderate watering when establishing; very drought tolerant once established; prefers well-drained soil

Winter hardiness: fully hardy to -15°C