The plant is native to Southwestern and Central Europe, including the Alps and Pyrenees.

[2] Luzula nivea is 45–85 centimetres (18–33 in) in length.

Its basal leaves are 20–30 centimetres (7.9–11.8 in) long and 3–4 millimetres (0.12–0.16 in) wide.

[2] Luzula nivea is cultivated as an ornamental grass, for planting in gardens.

[2] In some climates it can escape from gardens to become an invasive species.