This southeastern species (2n = 48) appears most closely related to striatula (of drier habitats). Its spikes are mostly shorter (ca. 0.5-2 cm versus 1-3 cm) and denser, with the lowest on a long, arching or drooping peduncle (versus short, erect or ascending); its perigynia tend have a more distinct, long-narrowed and strongly outcurved beak. There has also been some confusion with gracilescens, which often occurs in similar habitats; but the more extended fusiform perigynium beaks of striatula are distinctive, and its basal sheaths are not purplish or reddish as in fresh gracilescens (FNA 23, W).