It is native to much of western and northern North America from most of Canada to the southwestern United States, as well as eastern Asia.

This is a perennial herb growing a slender but sturdy stem from an underground caudex.

The inflorescence is an oval-shaped cluster of up to 15 purple or pink-tinted to nearly white pealike flowers.

It is dark colored with white hairs and dries to a papery texture.

When grown in garden settings the network of roots spreads enthusiastically and must be confined if the landscaper does not want a large patch of purple milkvetch.