Northwestern Twayblade
Neottia banksiana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, ID, MT, OR and 1 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Northwestern twayblade is a small, inconspicuous native orchid that grows in shaded woodland areas. This delicate perennial produces tiny greenish flowers on slender stems above paired leaves during summer months. It requires consistent moisture and partial shade to thrive in garden settings.
In an HOA neighborhood
Northwestern 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 appearance
- Can disappear underground for years
- May appear dead or absent most of the season
Wildlife value
As a native orchid, it supports specialized pollinators including small flies and gnats. The plant provides habitat value for woodland ecosystems but has limited broad pollinator appeal due to its small, inconspicuous flowers.
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 Northwestern Twayblade fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.