Herbs, 30–60 cm. Stems sparsely puberulent or scabrous on angles only at base of plant. Leaves: stipular glands usually absent. Flowers: petals 11–17 mm.

Flowering Mar–Apr. Roadsides, prairies, pinelands, pine rocklands; of conservation concern; 0–10 m; Fla.

Variety smallii is known from 11 populations, most with 50 or fewer plants. The pinelands that are its native habitat are disappearing due to development, but some populations are persisting along roadsides and in Everglades National Park.