Snakemouth Orchid
Pogonia ophioglossoides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Pogonia ophioglossoides (Snakemouth Orchid) is a native wetland orchid blooming pink flowers in June and July across eastern North America from bogs to wet meadows.
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 29 more states
Pollinators
bees
Snakemouth orchid is a rare native wildflower that produces delicate pink blooms in early summer. This small orchid requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions and is naturally found in bogs, wetlands, and acidic meadows. It forms tiny colonies through underground growth but remains quite diminutive in stature.
Growing Snakemouth Orchid
Grow Snakemouth Orchid in part shade and high water. Mature plants reach 4 to 12 inches tall and spread 2 to 6 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Snakemouth Orchid 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 size makes it nearly invisible in landscape
- Requires specialized bog-like conditions
- May appear completely absent when not blooming
Wildlife value
The orchid flowers attract small native bees and other pollinators during its June and July bloom period. As a native species, it contributes to local ecosystem diversity.
Common questions
- Where does Pogonia ophioglossoides naturally grow?
- Snakemouth Orchid is native to wetlands across much of eastern North America, from Maine to Florida and west to Minnesota and Texas, typically found in bogs, wet meadows, and other consistently moist habitats.
- When does Snakemouth Orchid bloom?
- Pogonia ophioglossoides blooms during June and July, producing solitary pink flowers that are pollinated primarily by bees.
- What growing conditions does this orchid need?
- Snakemouth Orchid requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions and grows best in partial shade to full shade environments, making it well-suited for bog gardens and wet meadow plantings.
- Is Snakemouth Orchid HOA-friendly?
- Snakemouth Orchid 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 Snakemouth Orchid? 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