Pronounced (approximate): ep-ih-PAK-tiss hel-eh-bor-EYE-nee
A non-native orchid with broad, veined leaves and a stalk of small greenish flowers often tinged pink or purple.
Family Orchidaceae
Life cycle Perennial orchid
Blooms July–August in the Upper Midwest
Height 1–3 feet
Habitat Woods, woodland edges, roadsides and disturbed ground in partial shade
Other common names
Broad-leaved Helleborine · Helleborine · Weed Orchid
The lower petal forms a small bowl-shaped lip. Behind it, three sepals make a triangular outline. Flower color varies from greenish or yellowish to pink and purple, so shape is a better starting point than color alone.
The young flower cluster droops before becoming upright as its buds mature. Numerous flowers develop along a single leafy stem. In the Upper Midwest, July and August are useful months to look for open flowers.
Broad leaves clasp the stem and have prominent parallel veins. Higher leaves become smaller and narrower toward the flower cluster. Photograph the entire stem to show this change, rather than relying on one isolated leaf.
Helleborine is a non-native orchid established in North America. It grows in woodland, along edges and roadsides, and in disturbed ground. Being an orchid does not automatically mean a plant is native or rare.
The foliage can resemble a lady’s-slipper before bloom, but the many small helleborine flowers differ from a large slipper-shaped flower. Compare flowering plants whenever possible.
Use the gallery to compare a side view with a front view. Which view best shows the bowl of the lip? Which shows how the flower attaches to the stalk?
Select a photograph to open the slideshow.
Native to Eurasia; introduced in North America.
Documented U.S. states: AR, CA, CO, CT, IL, IN, KY, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, OH, OR, PA, RI, TN, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI.
Observation maps show reported sightings and do not define the complete range.
Practice with the Wildflower Quiz or explore more species in the Flower Guide.
Field photographs: Where’s Wildlife.