This occurs from the central and southern Great Plains to the northeastern United States and adjacent Canada, but it is rare to absent in most southeastern states. It is generally distinct, flowering later than typical virginicus, and concentated on river banks or nearby sites in relatively open areas, especially near limestone (FNA 25). It ay be the most distinct variety of virginicus recognized in FNA 25, and it could reasonably be elevated to E. hirsutiglumis Lamson-Scribner.