Bistorta bistortoides plants generally grow to 10–51 centimetres (4–20 inches) tall.

[2] Individuals growing above 2,250 metres (7,380 feet) are smaller, seldom reaching more than 30 cm (12 in) in height.

The dense cylindrical to oblong inflorescence is 2.5–5 cm (1–2 in) long and packed with small white to pinkish flowers, each a few millimeters wide and with protruding stamens.

Rodents and bears consume the roots, and elk and deer browse the foliage.

[2] The roots are edible either raw or fire-roasted[6] with a flavor resembling chestnuts.