Roadsides, dry fields, grainfields, waste areas, gravel pits, pastures and rangeland, clearings, clearcuts, vacant lots, and railroad yards are sites typically colonized by yellow toadflax. Even in pristine areas and on rangeland in excellent condition, new infestations of Dalmatian or yellow toadflax can establish in naturally-occurring disturbances or small openings. Once the highly competitive vegetative growth begins, the condition of the rangeland will probably do little to slow expansion of the infestation. Loss of forage can impact big game species, especially on winter ranges. Although deer have been observed to browse Dalmatian toadflax and seed is used by some species of birds and rodents, it is not known to be heavily used by any native species.
All toadflax species can provide cover for smaller animals.
Where sod-forming or bunch grass communities are replaced by toadflax, soil erosion, surface runoff, and sediment yield can be increased. However, on harsh, sparsely vegetated sites toadflax can actually help stabilize soil. The toadflaxes can displace desirable plants, cause loss of forage for domestic livestock and some big game, and habitat loss for associated animal life. The economic impact of Dalmatian toadflax is primarily on rangeland and wildlife habitat, while yellow toadflax can be a serious problem on cultivated land as well as on rangeland. Reduction in cattle-carrying capacity and reduction in the appraised value of infested ranch land increases the economic impact.