Leaves at the base of the stem are scale like, simple in the middle, and in three to five leaf bunches at the top. This species is endemic to northeastern Alabama. Highway construction and erosion may have destroyed much of this species habitat, but the existing populations are currently under protection by the Fish and Wildlife Service. Vol I, pp. This herb has pale pink to lavender flowers that bloom from mid-May through June, and fruits that mature in July and August.
Soils are typically alkaline clays with a high mixture of organic matter.
Two other federally listed species, Alabama leather flower and green pitcher plant, occur in the same habitat. Historically, this plant was found in five Alabama counties and a single Georgia county, but is now only found in Cherokee County, Etowah County, and possibly in Bibb County, Alabama, along with a remnant population in Floyd County, Georgia. Mohr's Barbara's-buttons has declined from loss of habitat due to fire supression and the resulting natural vegetation succession. When fires are suppressed, forest vegetation overtakes the grassy clearings and shades out plants, like Barbara's buttons, which require full sun. When forest clearings disappear, this species finds habitat in other clearings, such as along roadsides or along utility line corridors, that are often subject to mowing and herbicide application.