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Tinker'S Penny

Hypericum anagalloides

Last reviewed: June 2026

Tinker'S Penny (Hypericum anagalloides)
Photo: (c) Nolan Exe, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Nolan Exe

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Tinker'S Penny as toxic to livestock.

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

2"–6" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AZ, CA, ID, MT and 4 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Hypericum anagalloides is a tiny creeping groundcover that forms low mats of small leaves and produces small yellow flowers in summer. This diminutive perennial stays very close to the ground and spreads slowly to create a neat carpet effect.

In an HOA neighborhood

Tinker'S Penny 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.

  • Extremely small size makes it nearly invisible in typical landscaping
  • May appear patchy or sparse rather than like intentional landscaping
  • Unknown leaf retention could mean unsightly dormant appearance

Wildlife value

The small yellow flowers attract bees and beetles during the summer blooming period. Its low-growing nature provides some ground-level habitat for small beneficial insects.

Common questions

How much sun does Tinker'S Penny need?
Tinker'S Penny grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Tinker'S Penny bloom?
Tinker'S Penny blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Tinker'S Penny native?
Tinker'S Penny (Hypericum anagalloides) is native to AZ, CA, ID, MT and 4 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Tinker'S Penny toxic to livestock?
The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Tinker'S Penny as toxic to livestock.
What pollinators does Tinker'S Penny attract?
Tinker'S Penny draws bees and beetles.
Is Tinker'S Penny HOA-friendly?
Tinker'S Penny 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 Tinker'S Penny? 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