Southern Twayblade
Neottia bifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, FL, GA and 14 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Neottia bifolia is a rare native orchid that produces small, inconspicuous flowers on short stems in late spring. This diminutive woodland plant has two small leaves and requires specific soil conditions to thrive. It is extremely uncommon in cultivation and difficult to establish in typical garden settings.
In an HOA neighborhood
Southern Twayblade takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Extremely small and inconspicuous appearance
- May be mistaken for weeds or volunteers
- Orchids are often considered too specialized for typical landscaping
Wildlife value
As a native orchid, it likely supports specialized pollinators, though specific pollinator relationships are not well documented. Its rarity means it has limited practical wildlife value in most residential landscapes.
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 Southern Twayblade fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.