This complex species (2n = 36, 72, 144) is widespread as ssp. racemosa in mesic woods of northern states and adjacent Canada, but extends further south into east-central states than stellata. It is sensitive to browsing by deer (Frankland & Nelson 2003), and may be largely removed by livestock. Typical eastern plants are tetraploid (2n = 72). Mapped records here include the southeastern segregate, var. cylindrata Fern. (F), which has not been recognized in recent treatments (W.