Crippled Cranefly
Tipularia discolor
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 3"–6" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 22 more states
Pollinators
moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Crippled cranefly orchid is a rare native orchid that produces a single mottled leaf in fall and winter, followed by a delicate spike of small greenish flowers in summer. This uncommon woodland species requires specific growing conditions and is challenging to establish in typical garden settings.
In an HOA neighborhood
Crippled Cranefly takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely uncommon and may appear as weeds to most people
- Invisible for much of the growing season
- Difficult to maintain and may not establish successfully
Wildlife value
This orchid attracts moths as its primary pollinators during its summer blooming period. As a native orchid species, it provides specialized habitat for certain moth species.
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 Crippled Cranefly fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.