This has been treated as a widespread variable species of warmer American regions, but a narrower concept may be warranted (FNA 21, W, Y). It is an annual (or perhaps short-lived perennial) with whitish rays, and sometimes has horticultural use. The only known coll. from Ky. appears to be a rare waif: J.W. Thieret, 3 Oct 1977, weed among low planted junipers, rest area of Interstate 75 between Berea & Richmond (KNK). This coll. is probably referable to var. radiata Schultz (= B. alba (L.) DC. var. radiata (Schultz-Bip.) Ballard ex T.E. Melchert), which has more rays and phyllaries (2n = 48) and extends north more frequently than typical pilosa, which usually lacks rays (2n = 72). Plants introduced to Africa and Asia have become widely used for nutrition or medicine (e.g. Silva et al. 2011).