Western rattlesnake plantain facts for kids
Goodyera oblongifolia is a special kind of orchid often called the western rattlesnake plantain or giant rattlesnake plantain. This interesting plant grows naturally across a large part of North America. You can find it mostly in the mountains of the western United States and Canada, stretching from Alaska all the way down to northern Mexico. It also grows in the Great Lakes region, Maine, Quebec, and the Canadian Maritime Provinces.
Quick facts for kids Western rattlesnake plantain |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Goodyera
|
| Species: |
oblongifolia
|
| Synonyms | |
|
|
Contents
About the Western Rattlesnake Plantain
This orchid is a type of plant that grows in forests. It loves to live in mountain forests, especially under tall conifer trees like pines and firs. It often forms a small patch on the forest floor.
What Does It Look Like?
The western rattlesnake plantain has broad leaves that are shaped like a spear or an oval. Each leaf is about 4 to 9 centimeters long. They are a dark green color. A cool thing about these leaves is that the main vein in the middle has a white stripe. The other veins on the leaf also form a white net-like pattern, but these lines are not as thick as the main stripe.
The plant also grows a tall, straight stem called an inflorescence. This stem can reach about 30 centimeters high. At the very top of this stem, you'll find many small white orchid flowers. Sometimes, all the flowers face the same direction on the stem. Other times, they are arranged in a spiral pattern around it.
Why Is It Called "Rattlesnake Plantain"?
The common name "rattlesnake plantain" comes from its unique leaves. The patterns on the leaves look a bit like the skin of a snake. People also used to believe that this plant could be used as a medicine to help treat snakebites.
Images for kids
-
A close-up of the Goodyera oblongifolia plant.
See also
In Spanish: Goodyera oblongifolia para niños
