Requires a rich well-drained but moisture-retentive soil in a warm sheltered position in partial shade. This species is not hardy in the colder areas of the country, it tolerates temperatures down to between -5 and -10°c. A problematic crop outdoors in Britain, it can be grown successfully as an annual in a greenhouse but requires a long hot summer if it is to do well outdoors. Plants tend to be annuals or short-lived perennials. A climbing plant, attaching itself to supports by means of tendrils. Dioecious, male and female plants must be grown if seed is required. Some plants might be monoecious.

Leaves and young stems - cooked. The leaves have a sweet taste and are used as a tea.

Pre-soak the seed for 24 hours in warm water and then sow it in spring in a rich compost in a greenhouse, placing 2 - 3 seeds per pot. Thin the seedlings to the strongest in each pot and grow the plants on fast. Plant them out after the last expected frosts and protect them with a frame or cloche until they are growing away well.

Thickets in open forests in lowland all over Japan.