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toadflax leaved st johns wort

 

Philip Townsend

Toadflax-leaved St John's-wort

Scientific name: Hypericum linariifolium
Toadflax-leaved St John's-wort has star-shaped, bright yellow flowers. It is a rare plant, with most of its population existing on Dartmoor. It likes steep, sunny slopes, acidic soils and plenty of space.

Species information

Statistics

Height: up to 65cm

Conservation status

Classified as Near Threatened on the Vascular Plant Red Data List for Great Britain.

When to see

June to July

About

Toadflax-leaved St John's-wort is a fussy plant that has very particular habitat requirements, explaining its rarity and limited range. It needs plenty of space, with few competitors nearby, and acidic soils in warm areas. Steep, rocky slopes exposed to the sun are a favourite. It is a perennial species and flowers between June and July.

How to identify

Toadflax-leaved St John's-wort is one of a number of similar species: look for reddish stems, and long, thin leaves that grow from opposite sides of the stalk. Star-shaped flowers are bright yellow and delicately dotted at the edges with tiny, black glands.

Distribution

Very rare and restricted to Devon and Cornwall, West Wales and the Channel Islands.

Habitats

Did you know?

Most of the UK's population of Toadflax-leaved St John's-wort (also known as 'Flax-leaved St John's-wort') can be found on Dartmoor.

How people can help

The Wildlife Trusts work closely with farmers and landowners to ensure that our wildlife is protected and to promote wildlife-friendly practices. By working together, we can create Living Landscapes: networks of habitats stretching across town and country that allow wildlife to move about freely and people to enjoy the benefits of nature. Support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.