Plant in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. These tough evergreens tolerate poor soils, coastal conditions, and wind exposure once established. Water regularly in the first season to establish, then only in prolonged dry spells, as mature plants become more drought-tolerant.

Feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser to support healthy foliage growth. To keep hedging specimens tidy, cut back long or misplaced shoots with secateurs in late summer. Remove any plain green-leaved shoots promptly, cutting them back to the point of origin (just above a strong growing point) to preserve variegated forms.

After flowering in mid-summer, reduce the flowered shoots to strong buds or younger lower growth. Apply a 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost or manure after pruning to conserve moisture and enrich the soil.