[1] Hesperostipa comata is a perennial bunchgrass producing erect, unbranched stems to about 1 m (3 ft 3 in) in maximum height.

The seeds of this grass have hygroscopic extensions that bend with changes in humidity, enabling them to disperse over the ground.

Increased moisture causes it to untwist, and, upon drying, to twist again, thus the seed is drilled into the ground.

Young shoots provide a favored food source for black-tailed prairie dogs and black-tailed jackrabbits, and the grass is a good early spring graze for livestock before it develops its long, sharp awn.

This species is popular among children because of the seed's ability to be thrown and stick to clothing.