Downy Rattlesnake Plantain
(Goodyera pubescens)
Downy Rattlesnake Plantain (Goodyera pubescens)
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Wayne National Forest
PDM 1.0
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Wayne National Forest
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PDM 1.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Wayne National Forest | License Type: PDM 1.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/ | Uploader: Wayne National Forest | Publisher: Flickr
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Goodyera pubescens, commonly known as Downy Rattlesnake Plantain, is an evergreen perennial herb that thrives in the understory of deciduous and mixed forests across the Eastern United States and Canada. It typically forms dense colonies with a height of 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) and a similar width. The leaves are a standout feature, being dark green with a striking white reticulated pattern, which persists throughout the year, adding winter interest to the garden. The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers on spikes in late summer to fall, which are modest in appearance but can add a delicate touch to the woodland garden setting.
Downy Rattlesnake Plantain is valued for its ornamental foliage and its adaptability to a range of soil conditions, from dry to moist. It is often used in shaded rock gardens, woodland gardens, and native plant collections. While it prefers part shade to full shade, it is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only consistent moisture and well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It is not commonly affected by serious pests or diseases, but slugs and snails can sometimes be problematic. This species is not known for aggressive roots or invasiveness, making it a safe choice for cultivation near other plants.CC BY-SA 4.0
Downy Rattlesnake Plantain is valued for its ornamental foliage and its adaptability to a range of soil conditions, from dry to moist. It is often used in shaded rock gardens, woodland gardens, and native plant collections. While it prefers part shade to full shade, it is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only consistent moisture and well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It is not commonly affected by serious pests or diseases, but slugs and snails can sometimes be problematic. This species is not known for aggressive roots or invasiveness, making it a safe choice for cultivation near other plants.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 1-2 feet
- Width: 0.8-1 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Green, White
- Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Slow, Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Understory of deciduous and mixed forests in the Eastern United States and Canada
Other Names
Common Names: Downy Rattlesnake-Plantain, Goodyérie Pubescente
Scientific Names: , Goodyera pubescens, Peramium pubescens, Epipactis pubescens, Neottia pubescens, Peramium tesselatum, Neottia repens, Epipactis reticulata, Epipactis willdenovii, Epipactis willdenowii
GBIF Accepted Name: Goodyera pubescens (Willd.) R.Br.