Hypericum hypericoides ssp. hypericoides (St. Andrew’s Cross)

Hypericum hypericoides, also known as St. Andrews Cross, is a wildflower that has deep green foliage and vibrant yellow flowers. It is native to the United States and can be seen growing in parts of Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia as well as in Puerto Rico. The plant is part of the Clusiaceae family and typically blooms from late spring to early summer.

St. Andrews Cross grows best in sunny areas with well-drained soil. It is tolerant of drought, making it an ideal choice for areas that experience dry spells. The plant can reach up to two feet tall and wide, but it usually stays smaller in size. It is also a great addition to any garden as it attracts butterflies and other pollinators.

The vibrant yellow blooms are star-shaped and have five petals arranged in the shape of a cross, hence the name St. Andrews Cross. The flowers can be dried and used for a variety of purposes including potpourri, flower arrangements, and herbal teas.

St. Andrews Cross is easy to care for and requires very little maintenance. To ensure healthy growth, deadhead spent blooms during the growing season and trim any dead or scraggly branches in the early spring. While it does not require much water, occasional deep watering can help keep the plant healthy and promote flowering.

Hypericum hypericoides ssp. hypericoides Information

FamilyClusiaceae
Common NamesSt. Andrew’s Cross
Native to USA
AL, AR, DE, FL, GA, IL, KY, LA, MD, MO, MS, NC, NJ, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA, + PRĀ 
Size2 feet tall

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hypericum hypericoides ssp. hypericoides edible?

No, Hypericum hypericoides is not edible.

Is Hypericum hypericoides ssp. hypericoides an invasive species of plant?

No, Hypericum hypericoides is not considered an invasive species of plant.