Description
Goodyera oblongifolia is a terrestrial orchid known as western rattlesnake plantain that spreads into small colonies of evergreen, ornately-variegated leaves in shades of dark green or mid green with white, reticulated veins. The variegation is quite variable between plants, even those growing close together in the wild. In summer, it produces small, white orchid flowers on a vertical stem 6-10 inches high. Goodyera spread in the loose upper layer of soil and organic duff or debris on forest floors so use a light, loose, gritty soil medium with chunky organic matter. Do not use heavy rich soils with lots of compost. Tolerant of periods of drought. Attracts bumblebees.
