Leaves erect, linear to ligulate-lingulate, never squarrose-recurved, somewhat contorted when dry, smaller at base of stem than larger above, ¾–4½ mm long; margins entire, revolute (i.e., strongly recurved); costa strong, broad (⅓ to ⅔ width of leaf base), ends near leaf apex; apex blunt, obtuse to rounded.

More specifically, it prefers to live upon calcareous substrates, usually in alpine or arctic regions, but occurring also in rich fens at lower elevations.

Fire return intervals in conifer bogs, a somewhat similar mire-type habitat, are estimated to be about once every 150–200 years.

California Native Plant Society List 2.2 NatureServe California State Rank: S2.2; Global Rank: G4 Fens are delicate habitats susceptible to impacts from livestock grazing, hydrologic alteration, construction and continued use of roads, and peat mining.

The surface water chemistry of rich fens is sensitive to climatic and anthropogenic influences.