Aaron's beard, St. John's wort Interesting Notes

Hypericum translates as "above a picture", referring to the fact that in ancient cultures, cuttings from members of the genus were hung above pictures to ward off evil spirits. Calycinum translates as "with a conspicuous calyx", referring to the portion of the corolla structure that lies beneath the yellow petals. - OSU Pocket Gardener

A stoloniferous subshrub or shrublet, typically growing 12" (less frequently to 18") high and 24" wide, which is frequently planted as a ground cover. Features large, rose-like, 5-petaled, yellow flowers (2-3" diameter) having numerous, bushy stamens with reddish anthers. Flowers appear singly or in groups of 2-3 and cover the plant in summer. Oval to oblong, distinctively net-veined (from beneath) leaves (to 4" long) are rich green in sun but are a lighter, yellowish green in shade. Four-angled stems are both procumbent and ascending. Sometimes commonly called Aaron's beard or creeping St. John's wort. Plants of the genus Hypericum (some species have been used since ancient times in the treatment of wounds) were apparently gathered and burned to ward off evil spirits on the eve of St. John's Day, thus giving rise to the genus common name of St. John's wort. - Missouri Botanical Garden

Hypericum calycinum Growing and Maintenance Tips

Prefers loose, well-drained soils in full to partial sun. Tolerant of many types of soils. Variegation and flowers are more prolific in full sun, but will tolerate part shade. May be propagated by seed, division or terminal cuttings. Cut back late winter to promote new flush of colorful leaf color. Easy to grow and low maintenance. Best used as a groundcover or in mass plantings.

Good Substitutions

Hypericum calycinum 'Brigadoon'