This perennial is commonly found in fens, savannas, and prairies. It will form colonies, often spreading a foot each year. The leaves have smooth margins and form a pleasy texture. It creates fewer blooms than that of M. racemosa, but is still quite pleasing. It is assoicates with Fragaria viginiana, Huechera richardsonii, and Tradescantia ohiensis in savannas. In fens, it is found with Carex stricta, Chelone glabra, and Eutrochium maculatum. The seeds are a favorite among thrushes.