Cultivation of this plant is not always easy, it prefers a rich limy soil in partial shade. Succeeds in any good garden soil, growing and flowering best in a moist well-drained rich loam in a sheltered position in partial shade. Succeeds when grown in the shade of a north-facing wall. Does not object to lime. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Dislikes drought. Slugs are very fond of this plant and it will probably require some protection from them. The various species in this genus hybridize freely. Plants can flower in three years from seed. A very ornamental plant, there are many named varieties. Plants resent root disturbance and are slow to re-establish when divided. They are best left undisturbed for 6 - 7 years before being divided. Seedling plants should be placed in their permanent positions whilst still small. A greedy plant, inhibiting the growth of nearby plants, especially legumes.

None known

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame. Sow stored seed as early in the year as possible, it usually germinates in the autumn to spring. Seed can take 18 months to germinate. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a lightly shaded position in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. This species produces flowering plants in 2 - 3 years from seed. Division after flowering or in autumn. Take care since the plant resents disturbance.

Woods and thickets, mainly in mountains, on calcareous soils. Sometimes also found in grassland.