It is a bright green perennial plant forming short, tufted tussocks up to 40 centimetres (16 in)[1] high.

Its seeds have three long, radiating awns; it is a member of genus Aristida, grasses known commonly as three-awns.

The species favours low fertility and well-drained soils.

It is commonly found in mallee woodlands and plains, where it grows on sunny slopes.

Superficially, the flower heads resemble those of the invasive weed African feather-grass (Pennisetum villosum).