Originating in East Asia and Japan, it has found its way across various parts of the globe, naturalizing in many regions. Its invasive tendencies are notably observed in areas with mild winters and heavy rainfall.

As an ornamental plant, its appeal lying in the large clusters of flowers it sports. These floral clusters come in a palette of colors including pale pink, red, fuchsia, purple, or blue, depending on the soil pH. Some hybrids of the species exude a powerful fragrance​. Moreover, its root has potential medicinal benefits. Extracts have shown promise in decreasing blood sugar levels. A cultivar awarded the Award of Merit and Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society​. Photographed in Colomibia.