Nodding Ladies' Tresses
Spiranthes cernua
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
4"–16" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, FL and 24 more states
Pollinators
bees, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Nodding ladies' tresses is a delicate native orchid that produces spiraling spikes of small white flowers in late summer. This slender wildflower grows in small clumps and goes dormant in winter, emerging again in spring from underground tubers.
In an HOA neighborhood
Nodding Ladies' Tresses takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Appears weedy and insignificant when not blooming
- Very small size makes it look like neglected grass
- Completely disappears during winter dormancy
Wildlife value
The fragrant white flowers attract native bees and night-flying moths during the late summer blooming period. This native orchid provides nectar when many other flowers have finished blooming for the season.
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 Nodding Ladies' Tresses fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.