Brown Widelip Orchid
Liparis liliifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 24 more states
Brown widelip orchid is a delicate native wildflower that produces small brownish-purple flowers on slender stems in late spring and early summer. This compact orchid grows in woodland conditions and may go dormant in hot summer weather, returning the following spring.
In an HOA neighborhood
Brown Widelip Orchid 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.
- Extremely small and easily overlooked
- Flowers are brown and inconspicuous
- May appear to be missing or dead much of the year
Wildlife value
This native orchid provides nectar for small native bees and flies during its bloom period in late spring and early summer.
Common questions
- How much sun does Brown Widelip Orchid need?
- Brown Widelip Orchid grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Brown Widelip Orchid bloom?
- Brown Widelip Orchid blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Brown Widelip Orchid native?
- Brown Widelip Orchid (Liparis liliifolia) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 24 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Brown Widelip Orchid HOA-friendly?
- Brown Widelip Orchid takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Brown Widelip Orchid? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz