Northwestern Twayblade
Neottia banksiana
Last reviewed: July 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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Northwestern Twayblade need?
- Northwestern Twayblade grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Northwestern Twayblade bloom?
- Northwestern Twayblade blooms in June and July.
- Where is Northwestern Twayblade native?
- Northwestern Twayblade (Neottia banksiana) is native to CA, ID, MT, OR and 1 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Northwestern Twayblade HOA-friendly?
- Northwestern Twayblade takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Northwestern Twayblade? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz