This taxon has been widely mapped in Ky., W.Va. (SC) and some other eastern states (Bailey 1945; F). It is retained here pending further study, but the claimed differences from pensilvanicus may be rather inconsistent or unconfirmed: its irregularly lobulate terminal primocane leaflets, and its more leafy (D) or racemiform (SC) inflorescence. Compared to argutus, Ladd & Thomas (2015) stated that laudatus has more uniformly serrate teeth on its primocane leaves, shorter acuminate tips of terminal leaflet on primocanes, and a propensity to dry a tobacco-brown color. There may not be notable differences in range or habitat, although Ladd & Thomas (2015) indicated a concentration in wetter habitats. Included here are records of R. condensiflorus Bailey, R. congruus Bailey, R. gattingeri Bailey and R. praepes Bailey, which have been considered synonymous with R. laudatus by Davis et al. (1955, 1967-69, 1990; see also M and K).