Rose pogonia is a species of orchid occurring from eastern Canada to the east-central and eastern United States.

It is also called Snakemouth.

It grows in sphagnum bogs (often in the wettest parts), fens and wet meadows.

The rose-pink flowers are about 3/4 of an inch long.

There is usually only one flower and it has a yellow-bearded lip.

The pink sepals and petals are about the same size.

A leaf-like bract grows below the flower.


The latin name Pogonia means “beard” referring to the yellow-bearded lip.

The species name “ophioglossoides” comes from “orphis” meaning “snake”, “glassa” meaning “tongue” and “eidos” meaning “like”.

Miles Hearn