Succeeds in most soils but prefers a moist well-drained soil in a sunny position. Plants also succeed in partial shade. Plants succeed in maritime gardens. They live longer when growing in a poor soil. The plant has a spreading root system and can be very invasive. Hardy to at least -25°c. There are some named varieties, selected for their ornamental value. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus.

Leaves - raw or cooked. Used as a flavoring in salads.

Seed - sow spring or early autumn in a cold frame. The seed usually germinates in 1 - 3 months. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring or autumn. Very easy, the divisions can be planted direct into their permanent positions. Basal cuttings of new shoots in spring. Very easy, collect the shoots when they are about 10cm tall, potting them up individually in pots and keeping them in a warm but lightly shaded position. They should root within 3 weeks and will be ready to plant out in the summer.

Damp meadows, marshes and by streams.