It is native to South America, growing in high elevation grasslands and forest clearings.

There are no stipules; the leaves are upright, linear, with entire edges and incurved margins, giving a wiry, cylindrical effect.

[2][3] This species is native to South America where it occurs in the foothills and high elevation grasslands of the Andes and other mountain ranges.

It is the dominant plant in the grassy páramo in the El Cajas National Park in Ecuador.

Overgrazing and damage to the soil caused by the feet of the cattle also adversely affect the natural vegetation and reduces biodiversity.