Prefers a well-drained but moisture-retentive lime-free soil in a sunny position. Plants are somewhat lime-tolerant but are unsuitable for shallow soils over chalk. Very resistant to maritime exposure. This species is not very hardy in Britain, succeeding outdoors only in the mildest areas of the country where it makes a small shrub. A very ornamental plant. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus.

None known

Seed - sow spring in a warm greenhouse and only just cover the seed. 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. Give the plants some protection from the cold for at least their first winter outdoors. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 7 - 10cm with a heel, in individual pots in a frame. Good percentage.

Lowland to montane, occasionally sub-alpine forests and shrubland, southwards from latitude 36°s, North, South, Stewart and Chatham Islands.