Curly dock is native to North Africa, Europe, and many parts of Asia. It has been naturalized in most other areas of the world It grows vigorously in a range of habitats, particularly forest edges, grasslands, and beaches. It is very invasive and aggressive and is considered a weed almost everywhere.

Consumption of curly dock can cause mild to moderate toxicity in humans, cats, and dogs. In humans, it may result in kidney stones and a laxative effect in infants. Cats and dogs exhibit physical distress, gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and diarrhea. All parts are toxic. Immediate veterinary care is necessary if ingested.

Curly dock is native to mainland Europe and western Asia, but it has been widely naturalized in many temperate regions of the world. Its non-native range includes the British Isles, North America, temperate South America, New Zealand, and temperate Australia. Curly dock can grow in a wide variety of habitats and is commonly found in roadsides, car parks, railway beds, forest edges, shorelines, fields, and wastelands. It's easily spread, which is why it causes concern. Its main way of spreading is through its lightweight seeds which can float on water, get stuck in fur and clothing, and by contaminating crop seeds. In many places, including the UK and the states of Arkansas and Iowa in the US, it is officially classified as a noxious or 'injurious' weed.

The best season to remove curly dock is early spring or autumn, when the plant is actively growing but has not yet gone to seed. Here are some methods of controlling this weed: