Scirpus smithii of Michigan Flora.

In essentially in the same habitats as S. purshiana; however, they are rarely found growing together.

Michigan material frequently lacks perianth bristles (var. smithii); but plants with bristles (var. setosa (Fernald) Hayas.) are also widespread. Bristleless and bristled variants have essentially the same range in Michigan, and may grow together, calling into question whether the separation into varieties is worthwhile. When present, the bristles are essentially the same width throughout and are sometimes shorter than the achene. The proportionately longer involucral bract of Schoenoplectiella smithii is usually not strongly bent at the inflorescence. See also the discussion under S. purshiana.