Planted 156 @3gal Hypericum around labor day of last Fall 2008. Some were planted in exposed areas and others were planted within a courtyard. 99% have died to the ground where green shoots are sprouting from the base on all plants. A few are leafing out near the ends of branchs but these few are sheltered from the cold drying winds.These were selected for use by Landscape Architect who was only paid for design purpose not consultation or project visit.It seems, after extensive research that Hypericum in cold climates usually dies to the ground which results in much maint. for owner. We will cut back all Hypericum to where new growth is forming This will be an extra expense to owner since our maint is not part of agreement. Owner has stated what would happen if pruning was not an option We informed them that they would have to wait till new growth crowded out last years growth which would result in viewing a shrub with a brown green appearance till old growth fell or rotted off. This could cause disease or insect infestation. Maint is just as time consuming with hypericum as with ornamental grasses. Any thoughts on Hypericum?