It is found only in the declining beach sand dune habitat in three areas on the California coastline, in Humboldt, Mendocino, and Monterey Counties.

Erysimum menziesii is a mustardlike biennial or perennial herb which is short in size, reaching maximum heights of usually not more than 15 centimeters.

The top of the stem is occupied by a thick bunch of flowers with bright yellow, rounded petals.

Minor threats include trampling by hikers and horseback riders, off-road vehicles, and sand mining operations.

[2] A more major threat is the invasion of non-native plant species such as Pampas grass (Cortaderia jubata).