St. John's wort - Hypericum androsaemum

Common Name :	St. John's wort, Tutsan
Binomial Name :	Hypericum androsaemum
Family :	Hypericaceae
Photo Taken :	Ireland

Botanical Identity

Hypericum androsaemum, commonly known as Tutsan, is a shrubby perennial plant in the Hypericaceae family. Native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, it is often found growing along forest edges, hedgerows, and moist, shady places. The name "Tutsan" derives from the French toute-saine, meaning “all-heal,” a reference to its historical medicinal use. This plant is recognized for its medicinal properties as well as its striking foliage and fruit.

Plant Description

Hypericum androsaemum is a small, bushy shrub, usually reaching 60 to 100 cm in height. It has oval, dark green leaves that are aromatic when crushed and often tinged with red or purple in cooler seasons. The plant is deciduous or semi-evergreen depending on climate and thrives in well-drained, humus-rich soils with partial shade. It is hardy and adaptable, commonly used in woodland gardens and mixed shrub borders for its attractive foliage, flowers, and fruit.

Flowers and Fruit Characteristics

Tutsan produces bright yellow, five-petaled flowers with prominent stamens, typically blooming from early to mid-summer. The flowers are about 2 cm wide and resemble those of other Hypericum species, attracting bees and other pollinators. After flowering, the plant develops distinctive berries that turn from red to glossy black as they mature. These berries are not considered edible but contribute to the plant's ornamental value, especially in late summer and autumn.

Uses and Herbal Tradition

Traditionally, Hypericum androsaemum has been used in folk medicine for treating wounds, inflammations, and digestive issues. The leaves and berries were once infused to make healing balms and teas, though modern use is less common compared to Hypericum perforatum (St. John's Wort). Today, Tutsan is primarily valued for its ornamental beauty and is often planted in shade gardens or naturalistic landscapes. Its combination of long-lasting berries and cheerful blooms makes it a charming addition to gardens seeking both beauty and biodiversity.


Photos of this St. John's wort (Hypericum androsaemum) were taken from the following locations:
1) August 2019: Devil's Glen, Wicklow, Ireland.


Written by Lonely Traveler,
For blog icflora.blogspot.com