Elionurus barbiculmis, or Wool-Spike Balsamscale, is a perennial bunch grass that reaches up to 3 ft in height and 1 ft in diameter flowering between July and October. It grows in dry rocky slopes, on hills, and in canyons; 4,000-6,000 ft elevations, where it provides excellent forage, habitat, as well as erosion control. The hairy spikes often have a yellowish or straw-colored hue making this plant recognizable from afar.