Grows best on sites that receive some run-off water. Most seed falls near the parent plant, but some seed dispersed by water, human activities and machinery, or by adhering to the feet, fur, or feathers of animals. Seeds can germinate under fairly saline conditions. Germination starts in early spring and is sporadic throughout the growing season when adequate moisture is available. Seedlings emerge from soil depths to 3 cm, but most emergence occurs from the upper 0.5 cm.
Cultivation can severe roots and encourage growth of new shoots.
African rue is the only species in the genus Peganum occurring in California and is unlikely to be confused with any other plants. Syrian bean-caper was believed to have been introduced to California in 1931 as a contaminant in alfalfa seed from Turkestan. African rue was introduced to the United States in 1931. These weeds are primarily problems in degraded rangeland habitats or waste areas along roadsides. Both exhibit a bushy appearance and die back to the crown each winter.