This is widespread across southeastern states, while typical ovalis is restricted to the Gulf Coastal Plain, with little overlap in range. Var. erostellata could be considered a distinct species (perhaps = S. montana Raf.). It is the only member of the genus to lack a well-developed rostellum and viscidulum, structures in the flower that oppose self-pollination (Catling 1983; FNA 26). Also, it has shorter sepals (ca. 3.5-5 mm versus 4-6.1 mm); flowers appear earlier but do not fully open, and the ovaries are simultaneously (versus progressively) swollen on each flower. Both taxa are distinct from other taxa in the cernua complex as follows: flowers are only ca. 6 mm long (versus 7.5-18 mm) and pure white; leaves oblanceolate (versus usually more linear), basal and recurved-spreading low on stems of mature plants (versus wholly basal, ascending to recurved-spreading, or absent).