Needs substantial water during establishment, then relatively drought tolerant. Nodules on the roots of the plant, with the help of Rhizobium bacteria, fix nitrogen. Grow as a groundcover. Can be used as a turf replacement and can be mowed. Not good for heavy traffic. Tends not to have good cover during late fall through early spring.

If grown in a freshwater environment, S. patens will grow much bigger. Use as a shoreling stabilization plant on edges of sand beaches and saltmarsh.

Called pignut because pigs eat the nuts. Excellent specimen or shade tree in areas where its roots will not be disturbed.