Northern Slender Lady's Tresses
Spiranthes lacera
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, DE and 30 more states
Pollinators
bees, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Northern slender lady's tresses is a delicate native orchid that produces small white flowers arranged in a distinctive spiral pattern on slender stems. This low-growing perennial blooms from July through September and goes dormant in winter. It prefers partial sun locations with average moisture levels.
In an HOA neighborhood
Northern Slender Lady's 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.
- Very small size makes it appear insignificant in formal landscapes
- Goes completely dormant leaving bare spots
- Orchid appearance may seem too wild or weedy for front yards
Wildlife value
The small white flowers attract native bees and moths during the summer and early fall blooming period. As a native orchid, it provides specialized habitat for pollinating insects.
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 Northern Slender Lady's Tresses fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.