[1] In North America Hierochloe odorata occurs in southern Canada, northern Great Plains/Rocky Mountains and northwest of U.S., and New England.

[8] Hierochloe odorata is a marshland species occupying the middle range of habitat between dune and salt marsh ecosystems.

[9] The species shows little preference for a soil's nutrient or water content, but is rigidly restricted by pH and salinity.

[11] The chemical coumarin, which creates the species signature vanilla smell, has a bitter taste that deters grazers.

[12] Hierochloe odorata grows best in soil with few competing weeds, loose texture and moistened to the point of surface puddling.

[12] The plant is harvested by cutting grass in early to late summer at the desired length.

[13] Holy grass was strewn before church doors on saints' days in northern Europe, presumably because of the sweet smell that arose when it was trodden on.

The Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) tribes have been known to use sweetgrass in a variety of ways,[15] such as basketry, ceremonial smudging, incense, perfume, and herbal medicine.

Among many of the Indigenous peoples of the Great Plains and Canadian Prairies it is considered one of the "four sacred medicines".