[1] It is native to arid and semi-arid regions of the Middle East, North Africa and southern Europe where it is used as a fodder plant for livestock.

Phylogenetic research led to the re-circumscription of the genus Salsola, and in 2007, the species was transferred to Caroxylon vermiculatum (L.) Akhani & Roalson.

[5] Caroxylon vermiculatum is part of the climax community in the Syrian steppe where it grows alongside Artemisia herba-alba, Atriplex leucoclada and Stipa barbata.

[8] Rainwater harvesting, in the form of contouring furrows that prevent run-off, increases the successful establishment and growth of C. vermiculatum.

[citation needed] In California, C. vermiculatum has been shown to be an alternate host for the plant viruses that cause curly top, a disease of sugar beet, tomatoes and cucurbits.