Variation in this southeastern shrub needs further attention. Some relatively glabrous plants in Ky. (see B, M and citations) have suggested var. foliosiflora (Michx.) Fern., including the synonymous var. capreifolia (Wats.) DC. and var. salicifolia (Wats.) DC. However, that taxon of the Coastal Plain is distinguished mostly by its conspicuous bracts, and probably does not occur in Ky. (FNA 8, W).