Northwestern Twayblade
Listera caurina
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
WY
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Northwestern twayblade is a delicate native orchid that forms small clumps with distinctive paired leaves and tiny greenish flowers. This shade-loving perennial thrives in moist, well-drained soils and naturally occurs in mountain forests. It requires consistent moisture and protection from hot afternoon sun to establish successfully.
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 inconspicuous appearance
- Can disappear completely when dormant
- Difficult to establish and maintain
Wildlife value
As a native orchid, this plant supports specialized pollinators including small flies and gnats. The foliage may provide shelter for small beneficial insects in shaded garden areas.
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 (Listera caurina) is native to WY, 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