Mapping here is tentative; few records are confirmed. Distinction of this variable northern (circumboreal) species from the southern diploids (2n = 12), echinata and bulbosa, is difficult in some cases. Typical multiflora in eastern states is tetraploid (2n = 24) and some northern segregates are hexaploids. These three species may appear to intergrade in Ky. (see also B), but closer examination may prove otherwise. L. multiflora is similar to bulbosa in its inflorescences and perianths (though generally larger), but differs (FNA 22) in its generally longer seeds (1.1-1.7 mm versus 0.9-1.3), with a shorter appended caruncle (averaging 0.3-0.5 mm versus 0.5-0.7 mm). Like echinata, it lacks bulblets and distinctly whitish leaf bases; but typical plants (F) may form relatively dense tussocks and tall flowering stems (ca. 1.5-6.7 dm or more versus 1-4.5 dm or less in the other two species).