Often found with Capnoides sempervirens and of similar ecological position, occurring 1–2 years after disturbance along roadsides, clearings, trails, gravel or sand pits, etc., and dying our quickly as the habitat becomes more stable and vegetated.

This is not as likely to occur on on rock ledges and summits as Capnoides sempervirens, and is a less glaucous, more sprawling plant with more finely divided leaves.