Basal leaves: longer spines 4-6 mm; distal faces more densely glandular than tomentose. Cauline leaves: longer spines 8-12 mm. Distalmost stem bracts usually tightly subtending heads. Phyllaries 100-120, 35-45 of them reflexed; apical spines 1-2 mm; marginal spines often present. Cypselae 4.1-5 mm. 2n = 34, 34 + 1B.

Flowering spring-summer (Apr-Aug). Serpentine seeps; of conservation concern; ca. 120 m; Calif.

Variety fontinale is known only from the vicinity of Crystal Springs Reservoir, San Mateo County.