Separation of this eastern species from vulpinoidea has been based on various characters, with somewhat inconsistent treatment (Cr, FNA 23, W). But it is clearly distinct in Ky., and concentrated on drier ground, with only seasonal wetness. C. annectans (sensu lato) differs as follows (FNA 23): perigynia golden yellow or yellowish-brown at maturity (versus dull yellow-green or pale brown); beak 0.5-1.2 mm long, about 1/3 as long as body (versus 0.8-1.2 mm, about 1/3 to 1/2); inflorescence mostly 4-7 cm long (versus 7-10 cm); blades up to about 60 cm long, shorter than flowering stems (versus 120 cm, longer).