This has a rather fragmented range across northeastern states and adjacent Canada. It is rare in Ky., being largely restricted to limestone ravines of the central Green Rv. watershed, central Kentucky Rv. Palisades area, western Knobs and western escarpments of the Appalachian Plateaus. Distinction from the largely Southern Appalachian taxon, doniana, is uncertain in some colls., but species status may be justified (Robertson 1974; PL, W). W. doniana has smaller flowers, with petals 2.5-4 mm long (versus 4-10 mm) and sepals 1-1.5 mm long (versus 2-6 mm). Inclusion of Waldsteinia within Geum has gained support in recent years (FNA, in prep.); see W for alternative combinations.