Yellow Nodding Lady's Tresses
Spiranthes ochroleuca
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–18" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
CT, IN, KY, MA and 15 more states
Pollinators
bees, moths
Yellow nodding lady's tresses is a delicate native orchid that produces slender spikes of small, cream-colored flowers arranged in a distinctive spiral pattern. The plant forms narrow clumps and blooms from July through September, going dormant in winter. It prefers partial sun and average moisture conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Yellow Nodding Lady's 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 size makes it nearly invisible in landscape
- Goes completely dormant and disappears for months
- Orchid appearance may seem too wild or weedy for formal settings
Wildlife value
This native orchid attracts bees and moths during its summer blooming period. Its specialized flowers provide nectar for pollinators seeking late-season food sources.
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 Yellow Nodding Lady's Tresses fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.