Platanthera clavellata, commonly known as the club-spur orchid or small green wood orchid, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to a variety of moist habitats including bogs, wet meadows, fens, and forested seeps throughout the eastern United States and Canada. It typically grows 4-16 inches tall and thrives in acidic, moist soils. This orchid blooms from mid to late summer, featuring inconspicuous greenish flowers with a distinctive club-shaped spur, hence its common name.

The club-spur orchid is valued for its role in native plant gardens and wetland restoration projects due to its ecological importance in supporting local pollinators and its ability to adapt to wetland environments. It is also appreciated for its delicate, small flowers that add a subtle beauty to the landscape. In cultivation, it requires consistently moist soil conditions and partial to full shade, mimicking its natural habitat. While not commonly found in the horticultural trade, it can be a unique addition to specialized native plant collections. Care should be taken to source plants ethically, as wild populations should not be disturbed. The main challenge in growing Platanthera clavellata is replicating its specific soil and moisture requirements, as well as ensuring the presence of the necessary mycorrhizal fungi for seed germination.CC BY-SA 4.0