Hypericum gramineum

Small St John’s Wort

Erect perennial herb with 4-ridged stems, often spreading by underground stems.

Additional information

• FamilyHypericaceae
• StoreyLower storey
• Sizeto 40 cm x 5-20 cm
• Plant groupingHerbs & Groundcovers <1m
• LeavesEgg-shaped to oblong, erect blue-green leaves 3-20 mm x 1.5-7 mm, stem-clasping, especially towards top of stem, margins curved under.
• Flower colourOrange-yellow
• Flowering timeOctober to January
• FlowersCup-shaped flowers to 10 mm across, on long stalks, in terminal leafy clusters. Mature fruit longer than calyx lobes.
• Bird attractingNo
• Butterfly attractingNo
• Frog habitatNo
• Growing conditionsWidespread through most communities except very wet or shady sites. Full sun, semi shade.
• Garden useSmall herb with bright flower. Plant in groups. Adapts to most garden conditions.
• Commercially availableIndigenous nursery
• Conservation statusWidespread within the Shire
• Related speciesHypericum japonicum is similar but smaller, more prostrate, with single flowers. There are several other Hypericums within the Shire. Two are major weeds, the others are weeds in isolated areas eg Yarra Junction and along part of Woori Yallock Ck. A major feature distinguishing the indigenous from the introduced species is the presence or absence of black gland dots. These are found on all exotic species, on petals and anthers, and often on leaves, stems and/or sepals.

Photo Gallery

(JPG, 171KB)

(JPG, 36KB)

(JPG, 79KB)

Plant Communities