This shrubby, deciduous native American plant grows to 8 and has golden yellow foliage in the fall which makes it very popular with landscapers from Maine to Florida. Hardy to Zone 4. It produces masses of delicious red berries which last into late fall. The berries also make a great jelly and if dried can be used like allspice or black pepper. A tea with a lemony aroma can be made from all parts of the plant. The bark is very aromatic and the stems have a spicy peppery smell when broken. The crushed leaves with a lemony scent. In early spring it develops small showy green flowers on naked stems. The aromatic leaves and stems are used in barbeque. The seeds are best sown in the fall. Plant at a depth of 3/4" in loamy soil (traditional outdoor type soil ) - add 10% coarse sand to the soil. An acid pH is required. Grow in semi shade or in full sun but be sure to keep the soil damp at all times. Germination may take 2 to 4 months. Fertilize every two weeks with an acid fertilizer.