It generally prefers well-drained, light soils. The plant spreads primarily by seed, but roots scattered by cultivation can aid in spread.
Basal leaves form a dandelionlike rosette that withers as the flower stem develops.
Stem leaves are narrow and up to 4 inches long. The lowest 4 to 6 inches of the stem is covered with coarse brown hairs. Stems and leaves both produce a milky latex. Yellow flower heads are inch in diameter and are scattered among the branches from midsummer to fall. The seed is ribbed and bears a soft, white plume .