St. John's Wort is a perfect example of why common names need to be verified with a botanic name. 

At your local nursery you will most likely find a broad leaved variety of Hypericum labeled St. John's Wort. The botanic for this creeping ground cover is Hypericum calycinum and it has no herbal use at all. Since there are about 370 different species of Hypericums it is vital to make sure your plant is labeled Hypericum perforatum if you are seeking the herbal  St. John's Wort. Before you use an herb medicinally, you should consult a qualified praticioner.

In some areas St. John's Wort may be invasive. We have not seen that here. In fact, with our dry hot summers and multitudes of gophers, we have trouble keeping it alive which is a shame because it makes a great beneficial insect attractor.

Cultural Information

Height: 2 Feet   

Hardiness: Perennial
in Zones 3-11

Flower Color: Yellow

Characteristics: Full/
Partial Sun, Herbaceous