Downy Rattlesnake Plantain

Did you know

• The plant gets its common name from the white-veined leaves that resemble snakeskin patterns.
• It is a terrestrial orchid that grows on the forest floor rather than on trees.
• Native Americans used the leaves as a poultice for snakebites, hence the 'rattlesnake' name.
• Goodyera pubescens depends on a mycorrhizal fungus relationship to survive and cannot be easily transplanted.
• The rosette of evergreen leaves is often more ornamental than the small white flower spike.

Color meanings

Uses

• ornamental
• traditional medicine
• native gardens