Requires a light loam. This species tolerates lime in the soil so long as there is plenty of humus. Grows best in a poor soil. Resents dry soils. Prefers an open situation. A very ornamental plant, there are many named varieties. Plants are quite fast growing. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.

None known

Seed - surface sow in a sandy compost in a cold frame in spring. Keep moist. Prick out the plants as soon as they are large enough to handle and plant them in their permanent positions when they are 5 - 8cm tall. This species is a hybrid and will not breed true from seed. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 3cm long taken from twiggy lateral growths near the base of the plant, July/August in a frame. Remove the leaves from the bottom part of the stem without causing any damage to the bark. The cuttings root in a few weeks if they are given some bottom heat. Plant out in spring. Layering in spring or autumn. Plants can be 'dropped' and then dug up and divided about 6 - 12 months later. Dropping involves digging up the plant and then replanting it about 15 - 20cm deeper in the soil to encourage roots to form along the stems.

Not known in the wild.