Shrub (3–)5–12(–15) dm, generally with a single main stem below and freely branched above; lvs firm, articulate at the narrow base, obtuse or rounded above, 1–3 cm × 1.5–6 mm, variable in shape but typically linear-elliptic to linear-oblong and broadest near the middle; bracteoles subulate, borne within 1 mm of the cal; 2 outer sep mostly 6–11 × 3–12 mm, rounded at base, obscurely 3–5-nerved, the 2 inner much smaller or even obsolete; pet 4, yellow, narrowly oblong-elliptic, 8–11 mm; stamens numerous, the filaments distinct or weakly connate at base; styles 2, very short; fr unilocular, enclosed by or somewhat exserted from the persistent cal. Dry or moist, sandy or rocky soil; N.J. and Md. to Ky., s. Mo., and Okla., s. to Fla., Tex., W.I., and C. Amer. June–Aug. (Ascyrum h.)