An afterripening period in the presence of oxygen and moisture is necessary for adequate germination. Overall seed quality and germination are improved in seed produced under optimal moisture conditions. Significantly enhanced germination in seed ingested by black bears in Minnesota is attributed to acid and mechanical scarification of seeds in the digestive tract. Although the majority seeds are deposited beneath parent plants, long-distance dispersal undoubtedly occurs via birds and mammals. Although producing an abundance of attractive white flowers characterized by a strong, sweet, almondlike fragrance, valued primarily for its fruit.
Varieties producing bright red berries are most preferred.
Plantings are also useful in increasing habitat and natural food supplies for birds frequenting residential areas. Susceptible to attack by the fungus Plowrightia stansburiana , which causes knotlike cankers to develop on stems. This condition eventually kills infected stems. Afflicted plants usually have a shortened life span. In the NE United States is a primary host of the eastern tent caterpillar.