St. Andrew's cross
Hypericum hypericoides
  • FAMILY: HYPERICACEAE
  • ALTERNATE COMMON NAME:
  • LEAVES: opposite pairs, simple, sessile; propeller; 1/2 to 1/4 inch; small leaves in axils
  • FLOWER: bright yellow, 4 petals forming an X-cross; June to September
  • FRUIT: flattened, single seed, 2-valved husk
  • TWIGS:
  • BARK: light and shreddy
  • FORM: : 2-3 feet, low, shrubby, many branches
  • HABITAT: dry to moist barren sites
  • WETLAND DESIGNATION: Facultative (FAC): Occurs in wetlands or non-wetlands of the Atlantic and Gulf Coast Plain Region
  • RANGE: : Maine to Nebraska, and Florida to Texas
  • USES: lightly used by deer; quail; ornamental
  • Best Recognition Features:
    1. low branchy shrub
    2. small opposite paired leaves; small leaves in axils
    3. yellow, X-crossed flower

    NOTES: St. John’s wort (same genus) is used to treat depression