Neottia cordata

Neottia cordata heartleaf twayblade

Plant grows in the wild/spontaneouslyPlant is native to PA Synonyms:   Listera cordata var. cordata
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Heartleaf twayblade is a small, delicate woodland orchid found in cool, moist forests and sphagnum bogs in Pennsylvania, particularly at higher elevations and in northern regions. It is endangered in our state, with populations threatened by habitat loss and environmental changes. This orchid features two heart-shaped to ovate leaves near the base and a slender stem topped with tiny, reddish-green flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. It thrives in shaded, mossy environments, often hidden beneath hemlock or spruce canopies. Though rare, it plays a vital role in forest ecosystems, relying on fungal partnerships for nutrients.

Very rare in cool sphagnum bogs or mossy woods.  Prefers indirect light to partial shade and peat-based, acidic to netural soil with good drainage.

Mostly found in north-east and south-west.  See distribution map at BONAP.

Wetland codes
EMP: FACW
NCNE: FACW



Flowers late May through July.

Inflorescence  raceme with 5 to 25 flowers; axis (upper stem) glabrous

Flowers  green to purplish to reddish; lower lip splits and forms two elongated lobes

Leaves  pair of opposite leaves, broadly ovate or ovate-cordate

Stem   sledner, unbranched; green or reddish-purple; can be slighly pubescent

Height  10 inches

PA status: PE (Endangered)
S-rank:     S1 (Critically imperiled)
G-rank:     G5 (Secure)

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Neottia cordata heartleaf twayblade

Plant grows in the wild/spontaneouslyPlant is native to PA
Synonyms:   Listera cordata var. cordata
Add to MyPlants View Locations
Neottia cordata gallery
Plant Life-Form
perennial forb
Common Names
heartleaf twayblade lesser twayblade