[2] It has declined because its native habitat has been cleared for development, with remaining open savanna invaded by non-native grasses such as buffelgrass (Cenchrus ciliaris).

[4] Today there are perhaps 20 populations remaining, but some of these may have very few genetic individuals because the species is clonal, with many cloned plants attached by one rhizome.

Ambrosia cheiranthifolia is a rhizomatous perennial herb growing erect to a maximum height around 40 centimeters.

The oblong leaves are 3 to 7 centimeters long and oppositely arranged on the lower plant but alternate on the upper stems.

[2] This plant sometimes occurs alongside slender rush-pea (Hoffmannseggia tenella), another endangered species.