[1][4] Hesperidanthus linearifolius is a perennial herb that produces a raceme of purple flowers, each with four spoon-shaped petals.

[1] Before blooming, plants in their first year have a basal rosette of oblanceolate leaves 5–10 centimeters (2–4 inches) in length.

[5][7] Leaves on the stem are alternate, hairless, short-petiolate and have smooth margins and pointed tips.

[7] It occurs on disturbed sites such as roadsides, and in desert shrub, pinyon-juniper, and montane conifer forest plant communities.

[2] Infusions of the leaves have been used as a ceremonial eyewash and as a treatment for sore gums by the Ramah Navajo.