St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Family: Hypericaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Hypericum perforatum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The herb and the fruit are sometimes used as a tea substitute. The flowers can be used in making mead. — The herb and the fruit are sometimes used as a tea substitute.; The flowers can be used in making mead.

Habitat & North American Range

Open woods, hedgebanks and grassland, in dry sunny places, usually on calcareous soils. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)