It is a hairy perennial herb growing from a narrow brown to black taproot and woody caudex.

The slender, trumpet-shaped flowers are pale to bright yellow or gold, and may approach 4 centimeters long.

[2] Used medicinally by Native Americans, the ground leaves roots and stems were rubbed on the limbs to reduce paralysis.

[5] The leaves are bound to arrow shafts, close to the point, obscured by sinew wrapping and used in wartime.

[6] Fringed gromwell reacts badly to being transplanted while actively growing, the leaves often turning black.