Plants die during extended dry, hot periods. Populations are adaptable to many environmental conditions. Grows on scree in mountainous regions of native range. Reproduces by seed and vegetatively from roots . Seeds dispersed by wind usually travel only a few meters.
Seeds can survive ingestion by birds.
Seeds do not require an afterripening period and are often highly viable. Germination occurs soon after seeds are shed summer through fall, but germination can also occur year-round. Frost, drought, and burial often induce seed domancy. Seeds can remain viable for at least 6 years under field conditions. Highest seedling emergence is from soil depths of 1-2 cm.