Aplectrum hyemale
perennial

Adam and Eve Orchid

Aplectrum hyemale

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

12 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Aplectrum hyemale, commonly known as Adam and Eve or Adam and Eve Orchid, is a perennial terrestrial orchid distinguished by its low-growing rosette of mottled, basal leaves and solitary, greenish-white flowers that emerge on a slender spike. This species is notable for its delicate, ephemeral flowers that appear in early spring and its ability to thrive in shaded, woodland environments with well-drained, humus-rich soil.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesProvides unique foliage and early spring interest with its distinctive leaves.
Practical UsesThrives in shaded, moist areas, reducing the need for irrigation in such zones.
Ecological BenefitsSupports native woodland ecosystems by providing habitat and food for insects.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck rhizomes 2 inches deep in moist, well-drained soil.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  3. Place in partial shade for best growth.
  4. Mulch around the plant to retain moisture.
  5. Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring.
  6. Monitor for pests and remove any affected foliage.

Pro Tip

Plant in partial shade with rich, moist soil for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Tuck rhizomes in moist soil 🌱
  • Water consistently to keep soil moist
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture
  • Fertilize organically in spring
  • Monitor for pests

Don't

  • Avoid waterlogging the soil ❌
  • Don’t expose to full sun in hot climates ❌
  • Skip fertilizing in late fall ❌
  • Don’t disturb the rhizomes unnecessarily ❌
  • Avoid dry, sandy soils ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland borderMoist area groundcover

Companion Plants

Fern Hosta Astilbe Trillium Solomon's Seal

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Adam and Eve Orchid questions

What zones can Adam and Eve Orchid grow in?

Adam and Eve Orchid is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Adam and Eve Orchid deer resistant?

Yes β€” Adam and Eve Orchid is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Adam and Eve Orchid bloom?

Adam and Eve Orchid typically blooms in late spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Adam and Eve Orchid need full sun?

Adam and Eve Orchid does best in part shade.

Keep exploring

Grow Adam and Eve Orchid with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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