This is widespread in warmer American regions. There have been several reports from Ky., but no verified colls. have been seen (M). Cr (1980, 1991) noted a record from POWE, but also stated that laevis (2n = 22, 24) is "chiefly but not wholly coastal" and "passes into" cernua. Similar confusion has occured in Mo. (St, Y), Tenn. (Ch+) and elsewhere, so that distinction of the two taxa has been questioned (FNA 21). In addition to its distinctively larger rays and reddish receptacular bracts, laevis is reportedly sometimes perennial (F, Cr); all other Bidens in eastern states are annual (or some occasionally biennial).