[7] It produces conspicuous yellow flowerheads about 3–5 cm (1+1⁄4–2 in) wide,[7] which are visited by various types of insects—especially hoverflies of the genus Eristalis.

[9] It has also become naturalized in many other regions, and is considered an invasive noxious weed in some places, such as North America (including Prince Edward Island),[10] Russia, New Zealand, and Australia.

[11][12][13] It grows in areas such as pastures, roadsides, bushlands and the shorelines of lakes, rivers[14] and sea coast.

[15] A study conducted in 2003 has shown that with future global atmospheric carbon levels, S. arvensis shows increased growth with increased atmospheric carbon which could potentially expand its range and outcompete native species.

[16] The young leaves, when less than a few inches long and not bitter in taste, can be mixed with other greens to make salad.