It is native to eastern Asia, where it is found in southern China, Korea, and Japan.

[4] It is a common species in Japan,[5] and is often found in disturbed secondary forests.

Racemes of small, fragrant, white flowers 15 cm (6 in) long are produced in late summer and autumn.

The bark is plain, blackish brown with twigs turning back.

[7] This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.