This weedy annual is originally from South America but has been confused in some accounts with S. physalifolium Rusby, which occurs mostly in western North America (Cr, W). There are different interpretations, and both taxa may be present in southern states. It is probably much more widespread in Ky. and Tenn. than currently documented. Compared to ptychanthum, it has stems and leaves with dense somewhat viscid pubescence (versus sparse to glabrous), larger flowers (ca. 7-11 mm across versus 6-8 mm), and generally greenish berries (versus glossy black).