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Leaves of Thermopsis rhombifolia are usually shorter and broader than those of Thermopsis montana and seed pods are strongly curved. T. rhombifolia grows 6-18 inches tall; T. montana grows over several feet tall. But even more important in distinguishing Thermopsis rhombifolia from Thermopsis montana is the habitat: T. rhombifolia is a dweller of lower elevations, prairies, and sandy, dry areas. T. montana grows in more moist meadows and woodlands of the lower mountains. In the De-Na-Zin/Bisti Wilderness area, T. rhombifolia grows on hot, dry, sandy/gravelly hillsides in large patches. It blooms early but its erect, dried stems and its leaves are still evident the following year.