[1] Hulsea brevifolia is a perennial herb producing loose tufts of erect stems 30 to 60 centimeters (1–2 feet) tall.

The faintly toothed leaves occur basally and also along the stems.

They are 5 to 6 millimeters (0.20-0.24 inches) long and have petioles with stiff hairs along the edges.

[2] The daisylike flower heads are up to 2 centimeters (0.8 inches) wide and have long, hairy, lance-shaped green phyllaries.

[2] The fruit is an achene 6 to 8 centimeters (2.4-3.2 inches) long bearing a pappus which may be red-tinged.