Prefers a light loamy soil that is deep and moist but succeeds in most fertile soils if they are not shallow. Requires a well-drained soil. Prefers a sunny position but it tolerates shade when grown in warm temperate zones. Requires a sheltered position, protected from cold winds. Plants are hardy to about -15°c. The leaves and the flowers are very aromatic according to one report, whilst another says that the leaves and wood are pleasantly aromatic, whilst the flowers have no scent. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.

The aromatic bark is dried and used as a substitute for cinnamon and all spice.

Seed - best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. If the seed is harvested 'green' (as soon as it has fully developed but before it has dried on the plant) and sown immediately it can germinate in 3 weeks. Dried seed germinates in 1 - 6 months at 15°c. Stored seed requires between 3 weeks and 3 months cold stratification before sowing in the spring. When large enough to handle, prick out the seedlings into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer of the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. They can be difficult. Layering in spring. Sever the new plants in a wet spell of weather about 15 months later and then lift them in the autumn. High percentage. Division of suckers in early spring. Very easy, they can be planted straight out into their permanent positions if required.

Banks of streams, ponds and other wet places below 1200 metres.