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Hypericaceae

St. Andrew's cross is a small shrub, 1 to 3 feet high, that usually grows in sandy soil in wooded areas from the Edwards Plateau east to Georgia and north to Massachusetts. It has smooth, bright green leaves and light yellow flowers with 4 petals that form a distinctive cross. The leaves have been used as an astringent, and the seeds reportedly have purgative properties. St. Andrews's cross looks much like St. Peter's-wort, H. crux-andreae, and their habitats sometimes overlap. H. crux-andreae has broader leaves, up to 3/4 inch wide and 3-4 styles, whereas H. hypericoides has only 2 styles and narrower leaves only up to 1/3 inch wide.

Plant Habit or Use: small shrub

Exposure: partial sun
shade

Flower Color: yellow

Blooming Period: summer

Fruit Characteristics: capsule

Height: 6 inches to 3 feet

Width: 6 inches to 3 feet

Plant Character: evergreen

Heat Tolerance: medium

Water Requirements:

Soil Requirements: adaptable

USDA Hardiness Zone: 5

Additional Comments: