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Diohio's Garden

Downy Rattlesnake Plantain (Orchid)

Genus: Goodyera.

Species: Goodyera pubescens Downy Rattlesnake Plantain Orchid.

Native perennial orchid. The tiny flowers are better viewed through a hand lens. The common name comes from the unusual markings on the leaves which are said to resemble those on the skin of a rattlesnake, and also the medicinal use of the root for treating snakebites. The basal set of leaves looks similar to plantain. Herbal folklore says that Native American women believed that rubbing this plant on their bodies would make their husbands love them more. The leaves were made into a tea to improve appetite and to treat colds and kidney ailments. There are 2 small colonies of this growing in the back woods.

Photos of this plant

  • Downy_rattlesnake_plantain_orchid_flvw_8_05_05_exc_med
  • Downy_rattlesnake_plantain_close_spider_8_12_05_exc_med
  • Downy_rattlesnake_plantain_two_first_found_4_29_05_med