[1] Taxonomists recognize around seven subspecies of Rhinanthus glacialis:[2][1] This upright-growing herbaceous rattle can reach from 10 to 50 centimetres of height.

[9] Bright to sulfur yellow bilabiate (two-lipped) flowers[9] are usually 1.5 – 1.8 centimetres long and arranged into a special type of inflorescence, the so-called spike.

Each flower has a curved and open corolla tube,[10][8] as well as a distinct upper lip, which consists of 1–2 millimetres long purplish to whiteish teeth.

[9] Rhinanthus glacialis is a European species, mostly inhabiting different countries of Central Europe (ranging from southeastern France to northwestern Balkan Peninsula[2]).

[7] The plant inhabits altitudes ranging from lowland regions to mountain habitats[11] with moderate climate conditions.