It is native to the central United States from Texas and Louisiana north to Nebraska, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.

[2][3] Phemeranthus rugospermus is a perennial herb growing up to 25 centimeters (10 inches) tall with an erect branching or unbranched stem.

[2] Phemeranthus rugospermus grows in open habitat where there is little competition from other plants, such as rock outcrops, stretches of sand, or open woods.

[2] Human-caused forms of disturbance, such as off-road vehicle activity, can be beneficial at times.

[3] Other plants in the habitat may include Andropogon scoparius, Selaginella rupestris, Opuntia compressa, Panicum virgatum, Allium stellatum, Isanthus brachiatus, Houstonia longifolia, and Ambrosia artemisiifolia.