Hypericum bellum

Hypericum bellum is a shrub in the Hypericaceae family. Its native range runs from Arunachal Pradesh into western China. Records also place it in northern Myanmar and southeastern Tibet. It grows in a temperate climate. Wild habitats include open woods, woodland edges, thickets, and grassy slopes. It also grows in scrub on open hillsides and forest clearings.

This semi-evergreen shrub forms a dense network of arching stems. Garden plants reach about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre] tall. Their spread reaches 3.3–4.9 feet [1–1.5 metres]. Plants take about five to ten years to reach full size. The leaves range from broadly oval to almost round. Wavy edges give them a soft outline. Some foliage remains through winter, rather than all falling at once.

Golden-yellow flowers sit at the stem tips above the leaves. Each bloom forms a cup about 1.4 inches across. Flowering starts in early summer and continues into autumn. The long season adds colour to beds and borders. The RHS lists its fruit as ornamental, not edible. Its warning covers both people and pets. Wear gloves and protective gear when handling the plant.

Grow this shrub in moist soil that drains well. It accepts full sun or partial shade. Suitable soils include chalk, clay, loam, and sand. It also tolerates acidic, neutral, and alkaline soil. The RHS rates its UK hardiness as H5. Plants For A Future gives USDA zones 5–9. Both exposed and sheltered sites fall within the RHS growing guidance. Keep drainage in mind when choosing a site with heavy soil.

Use it as ground cover or along a woodland edge. It also suits banks, slopes, courtyard gardens, and informal beds. The RHS includes it among plants for low-maintenance gardens. Most pests cause few problems, though rust may occur. Honey fungus is another possible disease, but the RHS calls it rare. Sow seed in autumn to raise new plants. Take softwood or semi-ripe cuttings during summer. Plants For A Future lists no known food uses. It records traditional uses for fever, worms, and several illnesses. These records do not establish that home treatment is safe. Its lack of listed hazards conflicts with the RHS warning. Treat the fruit as unsafe to eat.