Lesser Twayblade
Listera cordata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
shade
Water
medium
Size
2"–6" H × 2"–4" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CO
Pollinators
flies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Lesser twayblade is a tiny native orchid that forms diminutive clumps in shaded areas. This delicate woodland plant produces small greenish flowers in summer and requires consistent moisture to thrive.
In an HOA neighborhood
Lesser Twayblade 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 and easily overlooked
- May appear as weeds to untrained eye
- Requires specialized growing conditions
Wildlife value
This orchid attracts flies and beetles during its summer blooming period. Its small size limits its overall wildlife impact compared to larger native plants.
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 Lesser Twayblade fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.