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A dwarf perennial of the Asteraceae family, native to the mountains of western North America, from the Rockies of Wyoming and Colorado to Nevada and Utah, where it grows on screes, cliffs, and very well-drained rocky slopes, at altitudes of approximately 2,500 to 3,800 meters.
It forms small compact basal rosettes, 5 to 15 cm in height when in bloom. The leaves are spatulate to oblanceolate, entire, grayish-green, covered with dense, appressed hair that gives them a characteristic silky appearance. Each stem, thin and erect, bears only one head — which is one of the constant traits of the species.
What immediately strikes when observing the flower buds is their remarkably hairy appearance: the bracts of the involucre, narrow and tinged with brown-purple, are enveloped in a thick coat of silky white hairs that give them an almost woolly, very ornamental look even before opening. At anthesis, the ligules are lavender to pale violet, numerous and fine, around a bright yellow disc with a green center.
In its natural habitat, its flowering extends from July to August. In cultivation, it can bloom as early as June depending on conditions.
It requires perfect drainage, a poor to mineral substrate, full sun, and protection from stagnant winter moisture. It is intended for carefully maintained alpine rock gardens, raised troughs, and fine gravel cultures for discerning enthusiasts.