This is a widespread, variable (2n = 56, 70, 84), northern species that extends south to ne. W.Va. or as var. cordifolia (Regel) Fern. to high elevations in Tenn. and N.Car. (HFG, K, W). Planted trees of papyrifiera are known in Ky., e.g. at Ashland in FAYE where an unusual tree has done well for over 50 years; it is ca. 80 cm dbh, without distinctly peeling bark, and with relatively large leaf blades (up to 12 x 8 cm). There is a possible record of papyrifera from GRNP (MUHW), but it may be from cultivation and should be checked. There are also colls. from sw WV (Cabell and Putnam Co.) that appear to be from cultivation or misidentified pendula (MUHW).