Green Adder's-mouth
Malaxis unifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
3"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states
Green adder's-mouth is a small native orchid that produces delicate spikes of tiny greenish flowers in summer. This petite woodland plant forms low clumps with a single oval leaf and prefers shaded, consistently moist conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Green Adder's-mouth 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 small size makes it nearly invisible
- Wild orchid appearance conflicts with typical landscaping expectations
- Unpredictable presence due to dormancy cycles
Wildlife value
As a native orchid, it provides specialized habitat for certain small insects and contributes to woodland ecosystem diversity, though specific pollinator relationships are not well documented.
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 Green Adder's-mouth fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.