Spiked Crested Coralroot
Hexalectris spicata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
low
Size
6"–16" H × 2"–4" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
MD
Spiked crested coralroot is a rare native orchid that emerges from underground coral-like roots without any green leaves. This unusual plant produces tall spikes of small brownish-purple flowers in summer, appearing almost ghost-like in shaded woodland areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Spiked Crested Coralroot 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.
- Extremely rare and unusual appearance may be mistaken for dead plant
- Unpredictable emergence and may not appear every year
- Very uncommon plant that most people would not recognize as intentional landscaping
Wildlife value
As a native orchid, it contributes to local ecosystem diversity, though specific pollinator relationships are not well documented for this species.
Common questions
- How much sun does Spiked Crested Coralroot need?
- Spiked Crested Coralroot grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Spiked Crested Coralroot bloom?
- Spiked Crested Coralroot blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Spiked Crested Coralroot native?
- Spiked Crested Coralroot (Hexalectris spicata) is native to MD, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Spiked Crested Coralroot HOA-friendly?
- Spiked Crested Coralroot 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 Spiked Crested Coralroot? 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