This rhizomatous perennial occurs widely in mesic woods across northeastern states, including Appalachian regions. It is locally abundant in deeper woods on toe-slopes and terraces along larger streams, and may have extended into smaller tributaries before effects of settlement. In the central Bluegrass, Short (1828-9) listed the common name "Shawnee salad" and noted: "The leaves are said to be eaten by the Indians as a salad. Common in half cultivated lands, about fence corners &c." Unlike macrophyllum and appendiculatum, leaves generally wither completely during winter; also, they are less hairy and unmottled, perhaps reflecting lack of exposure to herbivores during the winter, which could have selected for more defensive chracters..