Nardus stricta is native to Eurasia (from Iceland and the Azores to Mongolia), North Africa (Algeria, Morocco), and northeastern North America (Greenland, eastern Canada, and the northeastern United States).

It can occur from low elevations to over 1,000 metres (3,300 ft), becoming a community-dominant in late snow patches on mountains.

Nardus stricta may also become a dominant species in habitats grazed by cattle or sheep because it is tough and unpalatable.

Apomixis is found to be common in this plant, with extensive colonies often proving to be a single clone.

[7] The roots and shoots are very closely packed together at the base of the plant producing a white, tough, highly reflective feature.