Sweetgrass Braids (Hierochloe odorata)

Hand-braided sweetgrass - the sweet-scented grass Hierochloe odorata (also called Anthoxanthum nitens) - sacred to many Indigenous peoples of North America. The grass has a distinctive sweet vanilla-coumarin aroma that becomes more pronounced as the grass dries. Sweetgrass holds deep ceremonial and spiritual significance among many First Nations and Native American peoples and is one of the "four sacred plants" in some traditions (along with tobacco, sage, and cedar).

Cultural Significance - Please Read

Sweetgrass is sacred to many Indigenous peoples of North America. The braiding itself often has ceremonial meaning. We carry sweetgrass with the understanding that respectful use by non-Indigenous individuals can be appropriate, but we encourage learning about and acknowledging the deep traditions that have preserved this plant's use across centuries. Avoid using "smudging" terminology or claims about specific ceremonial functions unless you are part of a tradition that taught you those practices.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Hierochloe odorata (also Anthoxanthum nitens)

Family

Poaceae (grass family)

Common names

Sweetgrass, Holy Grass, Mary's Grass, Vanilla Grass

Aromatic compound

Coumarin (the sweet vanilla-hay-like aroma)

Native range

Northern North America, Europe, and Asia

Cultural significance

Sacred to many Indigenous peoples of North America

What is Sweetgrass?

Sweetgrass is a fragrant perennial grass native to cool moist regions of the Northern Hemisphere. The grass produces a distinctive sweet vanilla-like aroma from its coumarin content - the same compound that gives freshly cut hay and tonka beans their characteristic scent. Across many North American Indigenous traditions, sweetgrass is among the most sacred plants, used in ceremonial contexts that include but extend beyond the popularized "smudging" framework. The braiding is itself part of the traditional preparation.

How to Use Sweetgrass

Sweetgrass is typically used as aromatic - burning produces fragrant smoke. To use: cut a small piece from the end of the braid (or untie a section); light the end until it smolders; gently blow out any flame so the sweetgrass smolders and releases fragrant smoke. Use over a heatproof bowl. The braid lasts a long time when used in small portions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does sweetgrass smell like?
Sweet, vanilla-like, with hay and slightly almond undertones (from coumarin).

What's the cultural significance?
Sweetgrass is sacred to many Indigenous peoples of North America with deep ceremonial significance. Use with respect and acknowledgment.

Can non-Indigenous people use sweetgrass?
Respectful use can be appropriate; we encourage learning about and acknowledging the deep Indigenous traditions.

How long does a braid last?
Used in small portions at a time, a braid typically lasts many months.

Is sweetgrass sustainable?
Sweetgrass is sensitive to overharvesting; ethical sourcing matters. We source from sustainable harvesters.

What is coumarin?
The aromatic compound responsible for sweetgrass's distinctive vanilla-hay scent; also found in freshly cut hay and tonka beans.