It produces few spores late in the first postfire year and many in the second. If the fire takes place in the fall, colonization is slower. It is common in urban and industrial environments subjected to a variety of pollutants, along highways, and on the tailings and refuse associated with both coal and heavy-metal mining activities. The capsules are held horizontally on the end of a long fruit stalk. Generally fruits abundantly.
Wind is the main method of spore dispersal.
Spore germination a two-phase process. Spores first swell then distend. This movement helps to jerk the capsules, helping in spore discharge. Spores have remained viable even after drying for 16 years.