Shrubs usually are sparse or absent. Graminoid dominance can be variable even within stands. Western wheatgrass may be sparse or even absent. This type needs better definition in the Black Hills. This type occurs on gentle to moderately-steep slopes of all aspects.
Shrub cover is typically sparse.
Little bluestem and other dry prairie graminoids such as side-oats grama dominate the herbaceous stratum. Western snowberry forms thickets in the understory. Other hardwoods such as boxelder and green ash may be present, but are not abundant. Cottonwood cover is variable both among and within stands. Distribution is typically patchy.