These are thick-rooted perennial herbs growing in squat patches at ground level and producing bluish-white flowers with yellow throats.

They grow in wet areas such as seepy meadows.

The species are generally similar in appearance, with oblong green leaves up to 7 or 8 centimeters long and 2 to 3 wide, often coated with tiny hairs.

The H. pumilus flower resembles wild strawberry, but has only five stamens and distinct elliptical leaves.

They bloom briefly in early spring in the sagebrush steppe.