Hypericum hypericoides

May be confused with Hypericum crux-andreae which is the only other prairie species with four petals. Hypericum crux-andreae may be distinguished by its flowers which have 3-4 styles, and its leaves which are oblong-elliptic, the upper ones clasping, while Hypericum hpericoides has two styles and linear to oblong-oblanceolate leaves that are narrowed at their base. The Hypericums have punctate or gland dotted leaves that are opaque if held up to the light. Leaves opposite, no teeth, tip rounded, linear to oblanceolate but narrow at base.

Seed germination is improved by cold/moist stratification (Steffen 1997). Seeds average approximately 1,800,000/lb.

Is of little forage value.

Found mostly in light sandy soils of prairies, open pine-hardwood and hardwood forest, thickets, grasslands, and bogs. The Acadian French name for St. Andrew's cross is "herb a chien," meaning literally "dog herb." The meaning of this name is not clear

Pinelands, dry or moist rocky soil.