A tall grass-like tuft plant of nearly 2 metres in height, preferring tropical regions, as it lacks the capacity to tolerate frosts. Being a fast grower, drought tolerant and a very deep-rooted grass. After 15 and 18 months of sowing,  the root and rhizome is harvested, washed and sun-dried for 10 days, then baled, and stored to further dry for another 3 months prior to distillation.

Planted in cultivated fields that help in controlling soil erosion against the tropical season. In India and Sri Lanka - the essence is known as 'the oil of tranquility' and is a holy herb said by Lord Krishna says "I am the fragrance of the soil" in Ayurvedic practice. It is commonly used as a fixative and fragrance.

The roots have been used in perfumery since ancient times, also being used as decorations and dried to create fans and mats. It has been used for its grounding properties in meditation and relaxation therapies.