A deciduous shrub that tolerates some shade and is a popular habitat for birds and small wildlife. It grows best in a well-drained location but tolerates a variety of growing conditions. The nuts can be roasted and eaten or ground into flour. Give ample space for this species to grow as it can become quite wide if left to its own devices. It produces a range of fall colours. This plant is monoecious (male and female parts on the same plant), however planting more than one may increase fruit production and it can sometimes require a different individual to be pollinated.