This southeastern taxon can be difficult to distinguish from the more widespread atlantica in some cases. It is often combined as a subspecies or variety, but W has maintained it as a generally distinct species. In addition to the typically narrower leaves of howei, its spikes and perigynia tend to have smaller dimensions (Cr, FNA 23). There has also been confusion with seorsa. In Ky. howei appears to be rare and restricted to well-developed acid seeps with high floristic interest.