This annual species with a strictly Mediterranean distribution is present, with two subspecies, in Liguria and in all the regions of Central and Southern Italy, except in Umbria. It grows in disturbed habitats like uncultivated grasslands and fields, on soils that are arid in summer, from sea level to about 800 m. The species is sporadic on the edge of the Sardinian temporary ponds. The genus name derives from the Greek 'gala' (milk), which is also related to the Italian 'caglio' (rennet): different species were used to curdle milk in cheese-making; the species name refers to the fruit, that is covered with large warts. Flowering period: January to May.

Italian name(s): Caglio verrucoso (Italia).