Sweetgrass

Known for its vanilla fragrance, Hierochloe odorata (Sweetgrass) is considered sacred by many indigenous people in North America, and is burned in ceremony; it is used as a smudge and in herbal medicine. The grass may be harvested twice a year and dried, and it will hold its fragrance for a long time. The sweet scent lies in its foliage and seeds and is stronger when the plant is dried. Traditionally used in basket making and for smudges. Birds are attracted to the seeds and a walk through sweetgrass is said to have a calming effect. Sweetgrass is found naturally in wetlands, prairies, and savannas with medium-wet soils, so it requires rich moist soil and at least 6 hours of sun a day. In the right conditions, this grass spreads vigorously by rhizomes, so it will blend with other grasses or perennials in a garden, or it can be planted in masses for a striking effect. Plant where it can spread naturally, as it can be difficult to remove once it becomes established. It may also be used for erosion control in moist, sunny areas.