Pale St. Johnswort
Hypericum ellipticum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CT, DE, IA, IL and 19 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Pale St. Johnswort is a compact native perennial that produces small, bright yellow flowers from June through August. This low-growing wildflower forms neat clumps and works well as a ground cover or accent plant in sunny areas with average moisture.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pale St. Johnswort 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.
- Wildflower appearance may look too informal for front yards
- Can appear sparse or weedy when not in bloom
- May be confused with aggressive invasive St. Johnsworts
Wildlife value
The cheerful yellow blooms attract native bees and beneficial beetles during the summer months. Its compact size makes it useful for supporting pollinators in smaller garden spaces.
Common questions
- How much sun does Pale St. Johnswort need?
- Pale St. Johnswort grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Pale St. Johnswort bloom?
- Pale St. Johnswort blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Pale St. Johnswort native?
- Pale St. Johnswort (Hypericum ellipticum) is native to CT, DE, IA, IL and 19 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Pale St. Johnswort attract?
- Pale St. Johnswort draws bees and beetles.
- Is Pale St. Johnswort HOA-friendly?
- Pale St. Johnswort 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 Pale St. Johnswort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz