Sphenopholis intermedia is a slender grass growing 20–120 cm (8–47 in) tall.

Most leaf blades are 2–6 mm (0.08–0.24 in) broad and flat or slightly rolled.

[3][4][5] The lax panicles are 3–20 cm (1.2–7.9 in) long and tend to nod.

[3] Sphenopholis intermedia occurs in meadows, prairies, shores, and damp slopes at elevations between sea level and 2,500 m (8,200 ft).

[4] It can be found from Newfoundland to southern Alaska, extending south to Florida, Louisiana, Colorado, and Arizona.