It is endemic to California, where it is known from the hills and mountains of Monterey and San Benito Counties.

It is an erect annual herb generally under half a meter in height.

The flower's tube measures 1.5-4 mm and has a ring of hairs at the rim.

As the bud opens the pink or purple sepals stay fused as the petals bloom from one side.

The fan-shaped petals are up to 3 centimeters long, pink to lavender with white and red coloration near the bases.