It is native to South America, and naturalized in many places (Mexico, Central America, the West Indies, the southeastern United States, Europe, Africa, Asia, etc.).

[2][3][4][5][6][7][8] In the U.S. it was introduced into the states of Georgia, Alabama and Florida.

[9] Flaveria bidentis is an annual herb up to 100 cm (39.5 in) tall.

One plant can sometimes produce 100 or more flower heads in a tightly packed array.

Sometimes the head also contains a single yellow ray flower.