Red Star Hypericum

The Red Star Hypericum, scientifically known as Hypericum Inodorum 'KOLMAREST', is a perennial flowering plant belonging to the Hypericaceae family. This attractive and versatile plant is known for its beautiful red-tinted foliage and golden yellow flowers, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscape design.

One of the most striking attributes of the Red Star Hypericum is its unique foliage color. The oval-shaped leaves display a vibrant red hue, which deepens in intensity as the plant matures. This reddish tint creates a stunning contrast against the bright yellow flowers, which typically bloom from late spring through summer. Each flower consists of five petals surrounding a cluster of bushy, bright yellow stamens, creating a cheerful and eye-catching display.

The Red Star Hypericum is a low-growing plant, typically reaching a height of 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) and spreading up to 24 inches (60 cm) wide. Its dense, semi-evergreen growth habit makes it an excellent groundcover, and it is particularly effective at suppressing weeds and preventing soil erosion. The plant is also tolerant of a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-draining. It can grow in both full sun and partial shade, making it a versatile choice for many garden settings.

In addition to its visual appeal, the Red Star Hypericum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care once established. It is drought-tolerant, requiring only occasional watering, and can withstand moderate foot traffic. Pruning is generally not necessary, although trimming the plant back in early spring can help maintain its compact shape and encourage fresh growth.

As an added bonus, the Red Star Hypericum is deer-resistant, making it a suitable choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations. Its vibrant color, low-maintenance requirements, and versatility make the Red Star Hypericum a popular plant choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

The Red Star Hypericum, with its eye-catching foliage and cheerful flowers, offers numerous landscaping uses for various garden settings. Here are some of the most common ways this versatile plant can be incorporated into your landscape:

1. Groundcover: Due to its dense growth habit and low height, the Red Star Hypericum is an excellent groundcover for large areas. It can be used to suppress weeds, prevent soil erosion, and add visual interest to the garden. This plant is especially useful for covering slopes or banks that are difficult to maintain with traditional lawns.
2. Border plantings: The Red Star Hypericum is a great choice for borders along pathways, garden beds, or property lines. Its vibrant color and compact size make it ideal for creating a striking edge that defines the boundaries of your outdoor spaces.
3. Mass plantings: For a bold visual impact, consider planting Red Star Hypericum in large groups or drifts. This will create a stunning display of color and texture in your garden, drawing the eye and providing a focal point.
4. Rock gardens and xeriscaping: The Red Star Hypericum is drought-tolerant and adaptable to various soil types, making it a suitable option for rock gardens or xeriscaping designs. Its low-water requirements and ability to grow in both full sun and partial shade make it a low-maintenance choice for these types of landscapes.
5. Container gardening: This plant's compact size and attractive foliage make it a great candidate for container gardening. It can be grown in pots, window boxes, or hanging baskets, adding visual interest and color to patios, balconies, or outdoor living spaces.
6. Wildlife gardens: The Red Star Hypericum's bright yellow flowers attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens. Moreover, its deer-resistant nature ensures that the plant remains unharmed in areas with high deer populations.
7. Mixed planting beds: The Red Star Hypericum's unique foliage and color can be combined with other plants to create dynamic mixed planting beds. Pair it with plants that have contrasting colors, textures, or heights to add depth and variety to your garden design.

With its versatility, low-maintenance requirements, and stunning appearance, the Red Star Hypericum can easily be incorporated into various landscaping projects, enhancing the beauty and functionality of your outdoor spaces.

Planting and caring for the Red Star Hypericum is relatively straightforward, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Here are some essential planting and care tips to help your Red Star Hypericum thrive:

1. Plant selection: Choose healthy, well-rooted plants from a reputable nursery. Make sure the plants have vibrant foliage, free from signs of pests or diseases.
2. Site selection: The Red Star Hypericum can grow in full sun or partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. The plant is adaptable to various soil types, but well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot.
3. Planting time: The best time to plant Red Star Hypericum is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild, and the soil is workable.
4. Planting process: Dig a hole that is at least twice the width of the plant's root ball and as deep as its container. Gently remove the plant from the container, ensuring not to damage the roots. Place the plant in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly to help settle the soil.
5. Watering: The Red Star Hypericum is drought-tolerant once established. However, during the first growing season, water the plant regularly to help it develop a robust root system. After the first year, water the plant only during periods of prolonged drought or extreme heat.
6. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring to provide essential nutrients and promote healthy growth. Follow the fertilizer manufacturer's instructions for application rates and frequency.
7. Pruning: Pruning is generally not necessary for the Red Star Hypericum. However, if desired, you can trim the plant back in early spring to maintain its compact shape and encourage fresh growth.
8. Pest and disease management: The Red Star Hypericum is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, keep an eye out for common issues such as aphids, spider mites, and fungal diseases. Employ appropriate control measures, such as insecticidal soaps or fungicides, when necessary.
9. Winter care: In colder climates, the Red Star Hypericum may lose some of its leaves during the winter months. Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help insulate the roots and protect them from freezing temperatures.