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Inflorescence a dichasial thyrse, initially subcapitate, but often expanding into a system of up to 30 x 10 cm. (even larger inflorescence have been reported from outside our area). Bracts linear to linear–lanceolate, 0·5–2 x 1–3 mm., sometimes with small lateral lobes. Inflorescence axis and branches generally glabrous with pubescent nodes, but may be sparsely hairy like the main stem.
Leaves mainly basal, but also present as 3–5 gradually reduced opposite pairs on the stem; most commonly pinnate, sometimes pinnatifid, more rarely subentire; terminal leaflets larger than the lateral ones, subrotund to linear–lanceolate, up to 13 cm. long; lateral leaflets ± irregularly dentate, becoming reduced in size towards the petiole.
Stems simple and unbranched below the inflorescence; generally glabrous except at the prominent nodes, but may rarely be quite densely covered with long, lax white hairs; internodes generally with well–developed ridges.
Corolla infundibuliform, white sometimes flushed with pink and distinctly pink in bud; slightly irregular, up to 5 mm. long; throat often with long, dense white hairs, exterior glabrous.
Achenes 3–5 x 1·5–3 mm., narrowly ovoid, strongly compressed, glabrous with 6 distinct filiform ribs, 3 dorsal, 1 ventral and 2 marginal.
Basal leaves generally with long petioles of up to 18 cm. (the length probably much dependant on the density of surrounding vegetation).
Erect perennial herbs of up to 1 m. at maturity, with fleshy rhizomes and fibrous roots; stolons occasionally present.
Style slender, with 3–lobed stigmatic surface at maturity, slightly exceeding the filaments.
Calyx inrolled at anthesis, limb segments forming a feathery pappus in fruit.
Stamens 3, distinctly exserted at anthesis, on long slender filaments.
Flowers perfect or imperfect.
