Gray-green to blue-green plant with a deep, vigorous taproot. It produces bright, thistle-like yellow flowers with sharp spines surrounding the base. Yellow Grows to heights varying from 6 in. to 5 ft., stems of mature plants are rigid, spreading, and typically branching from the base in open areas. Stems and leaves are covered with a loose, cottony wool that gives them a whitish appearance. Leaves are short (0.5 to 1 in. long) and narrow with few lobes.

Found in only a couple of counties of Southeast Nebraska.

Forms dense infestations and rapidly depletes soil moisture, thus preventing the establishment of other species. It is also poisonous to horses, causing a nervous disorder called “chewing disease.”