Western rattlesnake plantain
Goodyera oblongifolia · Orchidaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant western rattlesnake plantain: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Orchidaceae
- Type
- Perennial herb
- Foliage
- Evergreen, dark green with silvery patterns
- Blooming
- Summer (July-August)
- Adult size
- 15-30 cm tall
- Hardiness
- Moderate (-5 to 0°C)
- Origin
- North America (humid forests)
- Growth
- Slow
Care
Light exposure
Place this orchid in indirect light, partial shade or under tree canopies. It dreads direct sun which would scorch its delicate leaves. A cool, shaded location mimicking its natural forest habitat is ideal.
Watering
Keep the substrate slightly moist but never waterlogged. Water with soft or filtered water once or twice a week depending on the season. In winter, reduce watering while making sure the soil doesn't dry out completely.
Substrate and soil
Use a mix specific to terrestrial orchids: fine pine bark, blonde peat and perlite in equal proportions. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot. A slightly acidic pH is appreciated.
Fertilizer
Apply diluted orchid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring-summer). Use a concentration at half the commercial recommendations. Stop fertilizing in autumn and winter.
Pruning and maintenance
No pruning is necessary. Simply remove dead or damaged leaves as they appear. After flowering, you can lightly cut back faded stems to encourage branching.
Pests and diseases
Watch for spider mites and scale insects in dry environments. Root rot is the main risk if conditions are too wet. Ensure good air circulation and avoid excess water to prevent these problems.
Did you know?
Goodwear with oblong leaves owes its name to English botanist John Goodyear. Its leaves display spectacular silvery veins that capture diffuse light from the forest floor: this rare botanical feature often causes this plant to be confused with ornamental plants, so remarkable are its leaf patterns.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Chinese ground orchidBletilla striata
- Moth orchidPhalaenopsis amabilis
- Spotted orchidDactylorhiza maculata
- Lesser twaybladeNeottia ovata
- Broad-leaved helleborineEpipactis helleborine
- Western Marsh-orchidDactylorhiza majalis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.