Prefers a sunny position and a well-drained soil that is neutral to slightly acid. Succeeds in heavy clay soils. Bees dislike this plant. The leaves contain glands which release a most disagreeable odour when the plant is handled and can cause allergic reactions in people.

The herb is used as a flavoring in Peru. It is aromatic. Caution is advised, there are some reports of toxicity. A herb tea is made from the flowers in a similar way to camomile tea and it has a similar though weaker effect medicinally. The odour is not very pleasant and so it is not commonly used.

Seed - best sown outdoors as soon as it is ripe. Most of the seed germinates in the autumn.

Waste places usually on heavy soil.