Southern Twayblade
Neottia bifolia
Last reviewed: July 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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Southern Twayblade need?
- Southern Twayblade grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Southern Twayblade bloom?
- Southern Twayblade blooms in May and June.
- Where is Southern Twayblade native?
- Southern Twayblade (Neottia bifolia) is native to AL, AR, FL, GA and 14 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Southern Twayblade HOA-friendly?
- Southern 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 Southern 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