Spring Ladies' Tresses
Spiranthes vernalis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–16" H × 2"–4" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Spring ladies' tresses is a delicate native orchid that produces small white flowers arranged in a distinctive spiral pattern along slender stems. This petite wildflower blooms through summer months and naturally occurs in prairies and open woodlands. The plant forms small clumps with narrow leaves that die back in winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
Spring Ladies' 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 and can appear sparse or weedy
- Goes completely dormant in winter
- May be mistaken for a weed by neighbors unfamiliar with native orchids
Wildlife value
The fragrant white flowers attract native bees and flies during the summer blooming period. As a native orchid, it supports specialized pollinators that have co-evolved with prairie ecosystems.
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 Spring Ladies' Tresses fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.