Although this variable perennial (2n = 12 and 24) has often been considered alien in North America, there appear be to native races (F, W). P. major has often been reported from Ky. based on misidentification of the closely related native, rugelii. It is verified only from a railroad yard in JEFF (M. Medley #6666-82 for WKY); also, Gm noted occasional seeds found in forage seed samples. It is locally common in s. Ohio, and should be expected across n. Ky. along larger roads and railroads. It is much more common in northern states, where it was reportedly known as "whiteman's foot" by native people (F).