It is native to the foothills of the Himalayas, China, Taiwan, and Japan,[3] where it commonly grows to a height of 2.3 m (7.5 ft), with an equal spread.

[4] Form is round-headed, with a medium to fast growth rate and a coarse texture.

This species is dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate plants.

Flowers are insignificant: small, yellowish and appearing in spikes at leaf axils.

With frequent shearing, plants may work well in a formal setting as a hedge or screen.