This common alpine plant grows in small cushions about 8-12 in (20-30 cm) across with oval- to elliptical-shaped basal leaves. Leaves have woolly hairs underneath while the top of the leaves are hairless and greenish-yellow. Flowers range in color from white to greenish-white to pinkish-white. This plant is sometimes called 'dirty socks' due to the distinctive smell of the flowers. Found on rocky slopes between 5,500-8,000 feet (1,676-2,438 meters).