Generally, the leaves are divided into three sections. The flowers occur singly and have five glossy yellow petals. Several species are found throughout the state. Because of its immediate effects, livestock tend to avoid it. The first pair of leaves are opposite and subsequent leaves are arranged alternately.
Young leaves are triangular with three prominent veins.
The leaves have a coarse texture, similar to sandpaper. The margins have coarse, irregular teeth. The egg-shaped burs are covered with stiff, hooked spines. The seed bur causes mechanical injury. Later, green and sterile shoots emerge and have the appearance of a horse's tail.