This native annual grows up to 5 feet tall.  Stems usually have at least some spreading white hairs (C).  Leaves are lance-shaped with toothed margins and may be stalkless but never clasp the stem (C). Numerous flower heads on branching stems (A,B) consist of up to 100 tightly packed ray florets (petals) surrounding the yellow disk florets (D).

Closely related Philadelphia Fleabane (E. philadelphicus), has clasping leaves and prefers moister, shadier woodland sites.  When present, the pinkish ray florets are a helpful field mark.  Daisy Fleabane (E. strigosus) has narrower, strap-like leaves without teeth and the stem has closely appressed, not spreading hairs.