This plant grows in a wide variety of habitats, including disturbed areas as a common roadside weed.

It is a low-lying, sprawling perennial herb producing reaching stems which can exceed a meter in length.

[5] Some data suggests the species originated in an area between the southern USA and northern South America and introduced to other parts of the world by human activity.

[9] In Asia, specifically in Taiwan, B. coccinea is found among other weeds on the sides of roads, in lawns, and along bodies of water.

[10][11] The leaves and roots of B. coccinea are used medicinally in countries including Cameroon, Ethiopia, Namibia, Nigeria, Tanzania, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay.

[citation needed] Even in places where the plant is native, such as Sonora, Mexico, the weed is often found competing with important crops.