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Adam And Eve

Aplectrum hyemale

Last reviewed: June 2026

Adam And Eve (Aplectrum hyemale)
Photo: Alex Abair / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

6"–12" H × 3"–6" W

Bloom

May, Jun

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 23 more states

Pollinators

bees

Adam and eve is a delicate native orchid that produces a single leaf in fall that persists through winter, followed by a spike of yellowish-green flowers in late spring. The plant goes completely dormant in summer, disappearing until the next leaf emerges in autumn. This subtle woodland plant prefers partial shade and consistent moisture.

In an HOA neighborhood

Adam And Eve takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Completely disappears for months during growing season
  • Flowers are inconspicuous and may look weedy
  • Unpredictable emergence timing can appear like dead spots

Wildlife value

The flowers attract native bees during its brief blooming period in May and June.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Adam And Eve fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.