Shepherd's purse is a plant with a vast range that originated in several regions of Europe and has since become widely naturalized. This species has extended its reach, crossing continents to North and South America, Africa, Asia, as well as Oceania. It is considered an introduced species across many of these territories, adapting to varied climates and thriving beyond its native habitat.

Shepherd's purse is a weed growing in most of North America, along with Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Asia and East Africa. It is considered a nuisance in fields, lawns, gardens, and cultivated areas, and is classified as invasive in several western states including California, Arizona, Hawaii, Nevada and Utah, along with Maryland and Virginia in the east. There is some toxicity if eaten for persons with high blood pressure or heart disease. It also invades many kinds of crops. The seeds can remain viable in the ground for several years, making this invasive plant challenging to eliminate. Removal methods include soil tillage and the application of herbicides.

To control shepherd's purse, it is best to do so in spring when the plants are young and haven't yet reached the stage where they start seeding. This generally happens in late spring. So, early spring is the optimal time for removal.