Creeping yellowcress is a plant with a natural habitat in temperate and cold regions across the Northern Hemisphere. It has been introduced in various parts of the globe, where it can now be found across select areas in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. Creeping yellowcress has notably expanded its presence beyond its native range to several other major regions.

Creeping yellowcress originates from Europe and Asia but has spread globally. It's a weed due to its quick growth rate, hardiness, and high reproductive capacity. Creeping yellowcress is a perennial plant, meaning it can survive multiple growing seasons, often contributing to its persistence in gardens. Its stems spread out to form a leafy carpet, smothering other plants, and denying them vital sunlight. The weed's aggressive nature is further amplified by its startling capability to reproduce both sexually and asexually. While its tiny yellow blooms provide aesthetic value, they produce plentiful seeds that spread widely, exacerbating its weed status. Further, its rhizomatous root system allows for asexual reproduction and enables the plant to re-sprout even if the top growth is removed. This root structure not only aids in colonization but also makes eradication challenging. The plant's primary spread method is through its seeds, carried away by water, animals, or human intervention, leading to vast colonization. Overall, creeping yellowcress's impressive adaptability, aggressive growth, and reproductive strategies make it a harmful weed in garden settings.

The best time to control and remove creeping yellowcress is during the growing season, particularly late spring and early summer when the plant is still relatively immature. It's crucial to eliminate creeping yellowcress before it sets seed to prevent the spread.