The oriental lady's thumb is a weed native to China, Japan, India, Malaysia, and Korea. It is considered an invasive weed in the New England states of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The species roots in wet, disturbed habitats such as gardens, streambanks, or railroad margins. Little research has been done on its environmental effects, but it has been suggested that the weed displaces native species. This weed is a source of food for animals such as songbirds and beetles. The oriental lady's thumb is edible and resistant to control methods such as mowing. The weed should instead be controlled using chemical herbicides.