This Appalachian taxon is close to rosea, with tightly coiled stigmas and 2n = 52 in both species. Colls. should be rechecked, especially in more western regions. The clearest difference in appalachica is its relatively narrow widest leaves (0.9-1.5 mm versus 1.8-2.6 mm). In some cases narrower culm bases (0.7-1.4 mm versus 1.5-2.2 mm) and smaller perigynia (2-3.4 x 0.8-1.3 mm versus 2.6-4 x 1.1-1.8 mm) also can be useful (FNA 23). Lower bracts are often longer, up to 11 cm (versus 6 cm). Based on leaf width, this species is also easily confused with radiata.