Heather,
Yes pubescens is the large variety and the word does have to do with the hairs on the leaves. There are actually two smaller varieties, parviflorum and makasin. Makasin occurs in northern regions (where I live) while parviflorum occurs in more southerly regions. Note that some people only consider parviflorum as the small variety, believing that makasin is just a form of parviflorum. It typically has lighter-colored tepals than parviflorum. In my area both pubescens and makasin bloom at the same time.
I am so jealous! I have yet to see kentuckiense in person, as it is never offered for sale around here and doesn't grow anywhere in Canada. $60 isn't bad for blooming plants!
Also, thanks for the kind words Tom and Dot!
Joe
