Old fields, pastures, roadsides, disturbed areas. Annual or less commonly a perennial herb with a taproot. Spreading, much branched from the base, up to 2 feet long, usually with some degree of hairiness. Ovary superior, smooth. This species is native of Europe but has spread to most parts of the United States.
Some plants have glandular hairs on their leaves, stems, and pods.
This species is an important plant for grazing animals.