This is widespread across temperate North America, mostly occuring on damp fertile soils in thin woods or more open habitats. Though varying much in overall dimensions, few segregates are recognized (FNA 20) and only diploids are known (2n = 18). In Ky. it flowers mostly during Apr-Jun, about the same time as pulchellus (or perhaps peaking 1-3 weeks later), but hybrids are unknown. A related midwestern species with smaller bluish heads, E. tenuis Torr. & Gray, has been reported from Ky., but its presence is dubious (M).