This widespread northern (circumboreal) species extends south at higher elevation on or near the Blue Ridge, and even in Va. it is unknown in counties adjacent to Ky. [Appalachian plants are referable var. ophioides Fern. but that eastern segregate was not recognized in FNA 26.] The only verified location in Ky. is a recent discovery by R. Jones (2003), D. Dourson and J. Kiser (2005): near Yahoo Falls in MCRE (EKY; photos at NC). Other records seem to have been based on misidentified pubescens, including a previous coll. from near Yahoo Falls by E.M. & E.T. Browne (EKY). See W for detailed key: repens differs from pubescens in its secund to loosely spiraled spikes (versus dense cylindirc), and its leaves darker green with pale green variegations (versus more distinct white variegations); 2n = 30 (versus 26).