This species is closely related to striata; recorded chromosome numbers are the same: 2n = 20 & 22 in both. [In all other Desmldieae, recorded 2n = 22.] It has been widely sown as "Korean bush-clover" in eastern states for similar purposes, extending into somewhat cooler zones (PL). It has been established in Ky. since the 1930s or earlier (Shaklette 1937; B), but it was not listed by Gm in 1902. Compared to striata (W), sipulacea has a relatively long calyx (covering 30-50% of legume versus 50-80%), longer petioles (up to 4-10 mm versus 1-4 mm), leaflets clearly emarginate (versus not so) and spreading-ciliate (versus appressed), stems antrorsely strigose to glabrate (versus retrorsely pubescent). K. stipulacea tends to adopt a prostrate, spreading growth form more often than striata, and it may be most common in relatively dry, trampled or driven-over situations. However, both species vary much in growth form, depending on stress or disturbance. Both can be locally abundant on disturbed ground within native grassland and rocky glades, but they do not generally appear to become major invasive problems.