Etymology: Spiranthes: from the Greek speira, "spiral," and anthos, "flower," referring to the coiled or spiral character of the inflorescence, and hence the common nameladies tresses"
Plants: erect, perennial, 4"-16" tall forb; stems with 4 -7 scale-like leaves between the main leaves and the inflorescence
Leaves: basal leaves oval to lance-like, spreading into a rosette; persistent when blooming; hairy leaf axils
Flowers: white, 6-parted; lip less than 1/4" long, hairy with rough edges and a greenish-yellow center; inflorescence a 1"-6" spike-like spiral (raceme) of 1 stalk with many stalked flowers; blooms July-Aug.
Habitat: sun; in sandy soil
Conservation Status: Native

Flora of North America: Flora of North America USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos