Thrives in a moist peaty soil and a sheltered position. Prefers a reasonably moist humus-rich limy soil according to another report. The flowers are produced in early spring and they are often damaged by frost. They have a soft sweet perfume. The species D. occidentalis A.Gray. is very closely related to this plant, so it might have the same uses.

None known

Seed - best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. Remove the fruit flesh since this can inhibit germination. Dried seed will require 2 - 3 months cold stratification. The seed usually germinates in 1 - 6 months at 15°c. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Layering.

Rich deciduous or mixed woods in moist situations, often on calcareous soils.