[2] Because of the characteristic lamina, similar to a stretched out arm, it is sometimes called "Wegweisergras" (signpost grass) in Germany.

It has been introduced in Australia and New Zealand, and to North America where it has become naturalised in southeastern Canada and northeastern United States.

[3] It is generally distributed in Britain in dry woods, thickets and shady hedge banks on well drained soils.

In its invasive range in America, it sometimes grows in coniferous forests, where its presence is thought to increase the risk of fires, and on floodplains, the banks of rivers and lakes, and disturbed sites.

[2] In the British Isles, it is found throughout the United Kingdom but at more scattered locations in Ireland, where it may have been introduced.