[14] Arthraxon hispidus is distinguished from D. clandestinum due to its shorter height and leaves as well as the presence of marginal hairs.

[15] Arthraxon hispidus is highly variable, causing some researchers to consider there to be separate subspecies of the plant while others defend its single-species status.

They propose that the natural variation of Arthraxon hispidus can be explained by environmental differences across the species range.

[16] Arthraxon hispidus grows in moist, sunny environments and can be found in riparian, wetland, or floodplain areas across Asia and Australia, specifically New South Wales and Queensland.

Identified dye components of the flavonoid C-glycosides include luteolin 8-C-rhamnoside, apigenin 8-C-rhamnoside, and tricin are responsible for the yellow color produced.

It was first discovered in the United States in Virginia in the 1930s and was thought to be introduced accidentally or possibly by immigrants from Asia.

It is recommended to begin management or control practices of A. hispidus before it produces seeds,[29][27] due to its rapid germination.

There is uncertainty about the natural plant community of the species due to a long history of human development.