Varieties within this southeastern species have often been confused (FNA 20, Y, W; Townsend 2013). Var. recognita appears close to var. latisquama (Gray) Cronq., which remains unknown in Ky.; both are largely midwestern taxa and reportedly diploid (2n = 18). Var. recognita has also been confused with B. diffusa (another diploid), and some records need to be rechecked. Var. recognita is generally distinct from var. asteroides and var. glastifolia (Hill) Fern., which are more southeastern taxa that have often been combined; both are reportedly tetraploids.