It is a herbaceous, tender perennial species that grows up to 150 cm high (5 feet).

The inflorescences are terminal or axillary, very compact, with linear and foliar bracts.

The involvements are bell-shaped, 1 to 1.5 cm long, with unequal triangular or slightly lanceolate lobes.

Flower colour is white to pinkish with a reddish or purplish throat.

[2] Native to southwestern United States, from Arizona to Texas and northern Mexico, it is found in scrubby canyons and riverbanks.