[3][1] This rhizomatous perennial herb produces an erect stem 25 to 45 centimeters tall.

It has narrow linear leaves up to 20 centimeters long by just a few millimeters wide around the base of the stem.

The inflorescence is a dense raceme of yellow flowers that bloom in June and July.

Associated plant species include Oclemena nemoralis, Calamagrostis pickeringii, Calamovilfa brevipilis, Juncus caesariensis, Lophiola americana, Muhlenbergia torreyana, Platanthera integra, Pogonia ophioglossoides, Rhynchospora oligantha, Schizaea pusilla, and Tofieldia racemosa.

Fire suppression is a likely cause of succession, characterized by the overgrowth of large and woody vegetation.