Downy Rattlesnake-Plantain
If you look at the forest floor in coniferous woods you may well discover Downy Rattlesnake-Plantain (Goodyera pubescens ). This evergreen rosette of broad, rounded leaves gets its name from the similarity of the shape of its leaves to those of plantain, a common lawn weed. In fact, it is an orchid, not a plantain, and is the most common species of plantain in New England. It is distinguished from other species of rattlesnake-plantains by the bright silver markings on the leaves and the broad stripe down the center of the leaves. Each leaf lasts for approximately four years.
Thanks for that information. We have been finding this lovely plant in a number of places in the Nelson, NH, woodlands. My question is when does it bloom? We have seen it in spring, summer and early fall, but not evidence of a blossom.
October 18, 2012 at 3:53 pm
I have found it flowering in late July and August…a late bloomer. It has one stalk with tiny white orchids spiraling the upper third of it. Very pretty! Wish I knew if I could add a photo to my reply, but I don’t think I can or I would send you one.
October 18, 2012 at 5:45 pm
Mary, you should have my email since it accompanies my comment, and I receive your posts via email. I would love to see a picture of the flowers.
October 22, 2012 at 6:00 pm
I am confused by this. You say that it is an orchid, not a plantain, but then go on to say it is the most common specie of plantain??
October 18, 2012 at 4:06 pm
Sorry for the confusion! I was referring to “rattlesnake plantains” as opposed to the weed. There are four species I’m aware of — downy, dwarf, green-leaved and checkered rattlesnake plantain.
October 18, 2012 at 5:44 pm
When I first saw the picture, I thought it looked like one of our Australian orchids. Our terrestrial orchids die back every year.
October 19, 2012 at 11:35 am