Scouler's St. John's wort (Hypericum scouleri)
Care, watering, light and tips for Scouler's St. John's wort on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Hypericaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Scouler's St. John's wort
Hypericum scouleri, commonly known as Western St. John's-wort, is a perennial native to North America featuring attractive bright yellow flowers that bloom in summer. Its compact habit and abundant flowering make it ideal for garden borders, rockeries, or as ground cover in sunny areas. It's an excellent choice for attracting pollinators and adding a wild touch to the landscape.
Native range
Western North America, from Alaska to California
Care tips
This species thrives in full sun to light partial shade and prefers well-drained soils, though it tolerates a variety of soil types. Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot. A common mistake is planting it in deep shade, which drastically reduces flowering. It is quite drought-tolerant once established.
How to save a dying Scouler's St. John's wort
- Warning signs
- Yellow or brown, wilting leaves; soft or blackened stems. Leaf drop may occur.
- First aid
- Check drainage and substrate moisture. Ensure good ventilation and bright indirect light. Remove damaged parts.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot, or lack of light. Does not tolerate waterlogging.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act fast. Cut off rot and repot in well-draining substrate. Control watering.