It is a dominant species in the Pacific Northwest and Intermountain States. Both taxa are very similar, except the beardless lacks the awns, making the plants more palatable in late stages of growth. Plant growth is vigorous, starting early in spring. Plants may reach a height of 4 feet. Leaves are up to 10 inches long and 0.5 inch wide, flat and tending to droop.
Leaves remain green throughout the summer and are palatable even when dry.
Propagation is by seed.