This plant is a hardy weed that can invade large habitats due to its ability to grow in almost all types of soil. It is commonly found in gardens or abandoned land. Originally from South Africa, it has been widespread in Java since before 1835. It is now known to be distributed throughout tropical regions and is considered a pest in many countries, but it has benefits as a medicinal plant. 

Grows well at altitudes of up to 3,600 meters above sea level and is tolerant of disturbed areas. Prefers abundant sunlight and dry soil. Tolerant of drought if average rainfall is between 500-3,500 mm/year, tolerant of pH 4-9, and tolerant of low temperatures. The optimum temperature for its growth is around 15-45 °C. 

• Soft and weak fibrous roots.

• The stem is smooth or slightly hairy.

• The leaves are oval or lanceolate and 30-70 mm long, hairy, and serrated at the edges.

• The flowers are small, white and yellow, 5-15 mm in diameter.

• The fruit is hairy, long, and needle-shaped.

• The seeds are small, black, thin, and about 6-12 mm long.

• Propagation is through seeds.

• Pollination is aided by bees, flower flies, and self-pollination.

• Sowing is done first at a germination temperature of around 25-30 °C.

• Treats influenza, sore throat, cough, chest pain (angina), headache, antiviral, fever, diabetes, constipation, intestinal worms, stomach ache, diarrhea, rheumatism, meningitis, toothache, itching, boils, antihyperglycemic, hemorrhoids, appendicitis. 

• Flavonoids, aurones, chalcones, phenolic acids, phaeophytins, phytosterols, okanin glycosides, terpenes, 3,3-dimethylquercetin, kaempferol, polyacetylenes.