Used as an insect repellant. In Japan used as a potherb. A tea can be made from the dried leaves, also a medicinal herb, the leaves can be used as a tobacco substitute. Prefers a sunny site dislike shade and wet soil. Habitat grassy banks, dry open and waste ground.
Fruit is used raw or cooked, used fresh when ripe or dried then as an aromatic flavouring.
The leaves are used in cooked savoury dishes, dried fruit and flower buds in sauces. The wood is used for walking sticks. The plant can be grown as a hedge in southern Britain or clipped to form simple topiary. Roots and bark are used for tanning leather. The leaves have small hairs that sting causing irrritation to the skin.