Rattlesnake plantain (Goodyera pubescens)

Rattlesnake plantain

Also known as: Adder's violet, Scrofula leaf, Net-leaf, Downy rattlesnake plantain

The rattlesnake plantain is a perennial evergreen orchid found in the woods of Virginia and other places in Eastern North America. It grows well in woodland gardens with part shade and a heavily mulched soil.

Scientific classification

Species

Rattlesnake plantain (Goodyera pubescens)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

5 cm to 46 cm

Plant Height

10 cm to 15 cm

Spread

Green

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Rattlesnake plantain

Culture

Symbolism

Healing, Protection, Strength

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Quickly Identify Rattlesnake plantain

Basal rosette of dark green leaves with white rattlesnake-like markings, reaching up to 6 inches (15 cm) wide.

Downy flower stalk, 10-20 inches (25-50 cm) tall, supporting small symmetrical white orchid-like flowers.

Minute white to greenish-white flowers, 0.25 inches (6 mm) wide, in dense spike-like raceme.

Spherical to oval capsules up to 0.4 inches (1 cm) long, containing numerous dust-like seeds.

Pubescent bluish-green leaves in basal rosette, up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) long, with striking white vein network.

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Care Guide for Rattlesnake plantain

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Thriving in temperate forest understories, rattlesnake plantain prefers moist, well-drained soil and consistent moisture without waterlogging. Weekly watering is essential, and it thrives indoors with stable humidity. As an evergreen, rattlesnake plantain requires attentive watering year-round to maintain its lush foliage.

Fertilize: Rattlesnake plantain flourishes with balanced fertilizers (equal NPK), applied monthly during spring and summer. Use diluted solutions to avoid root burn, and reduce feeding in winter. Avoid contact with leaves during application. Understanding feeding cycles is crucial for vibrant growth and resilience.

Pruning: Rattlesnake plantain features veined leaves and a rosette growth pattern, requiring minimal pruning. Trim dead or damaged leaves in early to late spring for healthy growth. Regular light pruning prevents disease and enhances aesthetics, while heavy pruning should be avoided for low-maintenance care.

Propagation: Rattlesnake plantain is a terrestrial orchid that propagates best through division of mature rhizomes, ensuring new plants retain shoots or pseudobulbs. Leaf cuttings are ineffective due to rattlesnake plantain's reliance on mycorrhizal fungi for growth, making division the most reliable propagation method.

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Images of Rattlesnake plantain

Culture

Quickly Identify Rattlesnake plantain

Care Guide for Rattlesnake plantain

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