Sulphur cinquefoil is a field- and pasture-growing wildflower that is widely distributed across its native spread of Eurasia. The plant is now widespread in North America and can be found on all continents except Antarctica. This plant is classed as a weed and an invasive species in many US states, including Alaska, California, and Kentucky.

Native to the eastern Mediterranean, sulphur cinquefoil is sometimes valued for ornamental purposes. It grows as a weed throughout North America, especially in agricultural fields, disturbed areas, and roadsides. It is considered an invasive species by at least nine states and territories distributed mostly throughout the Pacific Northwest and eastern Canada. Sulphur cinquefoil can outcompete more nutritious forage due to its prolific seed production and spreading by roots. Mowing is not typically effective, but hand pulling or chopping can be effective if the root crown is removed, while cultivation with annual crops can control its growth as well. Herbicides, including Picloram, 2, 4-D ester, or a mix of dicamba and 2,4-D, have been effective in certain contexts.

The best season to remove sulphur cinquefoil is during the spring season, when the plant is still young and has not yet flowered. It's critical to remove this plant before it reaches the flowering stage to prevent it from spreading further.