Rhizomatous. Stems 15–60 cm. Leaves: upper leaf blades rudimentary; lower blades V-shaped or trinagular in cross-section, 1–2 mm wide. Inflorescence a solitary, erect spikelet; bracts absent. Spikelets 15–35 mm long in fruit; lowest scale lanceolate, shorter than the spikelet. Fertile scales brown to black with pale margins, 4–7 mm long. Bristles becoming tawny-brown. Achene 2–3 mm long, apiculate (
Lesica et al. 2012. Manual of Montana Vascular Plants. BRIT Press. Fort Worth, TX).