A persistent long-lived deep rooted perennial that reproduces both by creeping roots and seed. It grows from eight inches to three feet in height, with an upright stem that branches profusely.
Entire plant contains a thick milky latex.
Long narrow smooth leaves alternate on the stem. The entire plant turns red or orange in the fall. The plant is a native to Eurasia and is now a serious pest on rangelands in western states and Canada. Its usually found along stream banks, fencerows, roadsides, rangeland and pasture. It grows in nearly all soil and habitat types.