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Canada St. John's Wort

Hypericum canadense

Last reviewed: July 2026

Canada St. John's Wort (Hypericum canadense)
Photo: Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA NRCS. 1995. Northeast wetland flora: Field office guide to plant species. Northeast National Technical Center, Chester. Courtesy of USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

4"–12" H × 2"–6" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AL, CT, DE, FL and 24 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

This delicate native wildflower produces small yellow flowers throughout summer months. It forms low, compact clumps that work well as groundcover in partially shaded areas with average moisture.

In an HOA neighborhood

Canada St. John's Wort takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Very small stature makes it appear weedy
  • Informal wildflower appearance doesn't suit formal landscapes
  • May be overlooked or mistaken for a weed by maintenance crews

Wildlife value

The bright yellow blooms attract native bees and beetles during the summer flowering period. Its compact size makes it useful for supporting pollinators in smaller garden spaces.

Common questions

How much sun does Canada St. John's Wort need?
Canada St. John's Wort grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Canada St. John's Wort bloom?
Canada St. John's Wort blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Canada St. John's Wort native?
Canada St. John's Wort (Hypericum canadense) is native to AL, CT, DE, FL and 24 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Canada St. John's Wort attract?
Canada St. John's Wort draws bees and beetles.
Is Canada St. John's Wort HOA-friendly?
Canada St. John's Wort takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Canada St. John's Wort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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