This is widespread from eastern North America to South America, with concentrations on the Gulf and Atlantic Coastal Plains, Great Lakes region, and along its western margins in the Mississippi Flyway for migrating birds (K). The rare white-flowered form (var. albiflora Short) was first collected in Ky. (NY). The species is virtually absent from the central Ohio Valley and rarely recorded in Ky., with more verification is needed at several sites. However, it is somestimes introduced and prospers in artificial ponds. The "starchy nut-like seeds" of this species are reportedly edible for humans, and young shoots also have much potential for food (Fernald et al. 1958). But there appears to be little information on traditional uses by native people. The plants found in GRNP (KNK) to the northeast are assumed to be escaped from cultivation. It has also become recently naturalized after planting in FAYE (Gainesway Pond). See notes under Peltandra.