This species can be found in regions across North America, from the Great Lakes to the West Coast of the United States.

Erysimum capitatum is a mustard-like plant with thin, erect stems growing from a basal rosette and topped with dense bunches of variably colored flowers.

It is a biennial herb and its native habitats include plains, foothills, and high elevation coniferous forests.

[2] The Latin specific epithet capitatum refers to the head-like shape of the flower cluster or the knobby stigma.

perenne in Subalpine Talus Fell Scree of the Timberland Hall Area (2,900–3,500 metres (9,500–11,500 ft) elevation).