Flower:

Numerous 1½-inch round flower heads of hairy bracts in the upper half of the plant. A dense cluster of flower heads may be at the top of the plant. Individual flowers are about ¼-inch across, white with a spot of purple at the throat, 1 large petal at the top and 2 small petals below. Usually only a few flowers are open at a time.

Leaves and stem:

Leaves are in groups of 3, alternately attached at the stem. Each leaf is up to 3 inches long and to 1 inch wide, toothless, usually rounded on both ends but may have a pointed tip. The stem is covered in fine white hairs; the leaves may have a silky look from dense hairs as well.

Fruit:

As seeds mature, the flower heads turn a rusty brown. They retain their shape through the winter.