Modoc Bog Orchid
Platanthera stricta
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
4"–24" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MT and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Modoc bog orchid is a rare native orchid that produces delicate white flower spikes in summer. This moisture-loving perennial requires consistently wet soil conditions and is challenging to establish in typical garden settings.
In an HOA neighborhood
Modoc Bog Orchid 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 rare and difficult to source
- Requires boggy conditions unsuitable for most landscapes
- May disappear or fail to establish
Wildlife value
The flowers attract specialized pollinators including native bees and moths during its summer bloom period.
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 Modoc Bog Orchid fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.