Spring Coralroot
Corallorhiza wisteriana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CO and 28 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Spring coralroot is a rare native orchid that emerges briefly in spring woodlands. This unusual plant lacks chlorophyll and gets nutrients through a relationship with soil fungi, appearing as delicate reddish-brown stems with small flowers.
In an HOA neighborhood
Spring Coralroot 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.
- Invisible most of the year, appearing dead or absent
- Extremely difficult to establish and maintain
- May be mistaken for weeds when present
Wildlife value
As a native orchid, it may attract specialized pollinators, though pollinator relationships are not well documented for this species.
Common questions
- How much sun does Spring Coralroot need?
- Spring Coralroot grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Spring Coralroot bloom?
- Spring Coralroot blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Spring Coralroot native?
- Spring Coralroot (Corallorhiza wisteriana) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CO and 28 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Spring Coralroot HOA-friendly?
- Spring 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 Spring 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