Erect herbs to 1.5 m high, not leafier in lower ⅓ at anthesis. Primary roots well-developed; secondary roots fine. Stems nearly glabrous. Leaves 10–15 cm long, with l:w ratio c. 1.5–2, 1-or 2-pinnatisect, with 4–6 primary segments per side; base with well-developed auricles; margin with well-spaced teeth; upper surface ± glabrous; lower surface sparsely hispid, generally not purple. Capitula numerous per stem; calycular bracteoles 3–5, 1.5–2.5 mm long; peduncle and calyculus not cobwebby at anthesis; involucre 5.0–7.0 mm long, 1.2–1.5 mm diam.; bracts predominantly 8–10, glabrous. Florets 15–25. Achenes narrowly obloid, 1.8–2.2 mm long, dark red-brown, with papillose hairs in narrow bands; l:w ratio of hairs c. 3. Pappus 4–5 mm long.