Prefers full sun and a sandy or gravelly loam low in nutrients. The sub-species A. glauca villosa is used for its gum.

The solidified sap (latex) of the stem is chewed as a gum.

Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. The seed usually germinates in 2 - 6 weeks at 15°c. As soon as the seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer or late in the following spring. Division with care in spring. The plants do not like a lot of root disturbance so it is best to pot up the divisions and keep them in a cold frame or greenhouse until they are established.

Meadows and other open places at all elevations in moderately dry to moist or even wet soils.