Downy Rattlesnake Plantain (Goodyera pubescens)

Downy rattlesnake plantain an evergreen perennial in the orchid family,  has attractive deep blue-green leaves with distinctive silvery veins.   A single flower stalk, 16-20″ tall rises from the center of each rosette of leaves in summer.  Tiny, white to greenish-white, rounded flowers bloom from July to mid-September Flowers are followed by small fruit capsules. All parts of the plant are covered with very fine downy hair.

Easily grown in organically rich, medium moisture, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade, best with sun-dappled part shade. Mulch to maintain consistent soil moisture. Native to both moist and dry woods in the eastern US.  Bare root seedling. Photo credit: © Arthur Haines, Native Plant Trust