It has a widespread distribution in Canada and the United States, where it is found primarily east of the Rocky Mountains.

[2] It is typically found in open, dry areas associated with calcareous or sandy soil.

This species is host to the following insect induced galls: external link to gallformers This species is considered by NatureServe to be globally "secure" (G5), which is the lowest level of conservation concern assigned.

It is listed as endangered and extirpated in Maryland, as threatened in New York, and as historical in Rhode Island.

[9] The Meskwaki make the flowers into a lotion and use them on bee stings and for swollen faces.