Dwarf Rattlesnake Plantain
goodyera repens
Also known as: ["Dwarf Rattlesnake Plantain Orchid","White Rattlesnake Plantain"]
Overview
A small, terrestrial orchid with distinctive white and green mottled leaves and small white flowers arranged on a spike.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Genus: | Goodyera |
| Botanical Name: | Goodyera repens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded woodland garden or shaded indoor pot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic orchid mix or sphagnum moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead leaves appear.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Avoid direct sunlight, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to new light conditions; protect from intense midday sun; place in a shaded spot outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to dappled light
Avoid direct sun; provide filtered light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, humus-rich, well-draining soil
pH: Slightly acidic, pH 5.5–6.5.
Ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH; avoid heavy soils.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C). Prefers cooler conditions in winter.
Keep away from drafts; maintain stable temperatures; avoid extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted orchid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only during growing season; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or seed propagation (challenging).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate rhizomes with healthy roots.
- Plant in a suitable medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and stable temperatures.
Medium
Humid, well-draining medium like sphagnum moss or orchid mix.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division.
Timeline
Rhizome division can be done immediately; seed propagation may take months to years.
Tools Needed
Clean knife, sterile potting medium, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; maintain high humidity; be patient with seed propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead foliage; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Use a pot one size larger with good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining medium.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or the medium breaks down.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh medium; ensure proper drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water at root zone; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is moist but not saturated. Ensure excess water drains away completely. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out partially between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; use sphagnum moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause root damage if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Protect from drafts; use a heating mat in very cold conditions; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; growth may slow in temperatures above 80°F (27°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; ensure good air circulation; water more frequently if needed.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize in growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a diluted orchid or balanced liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGoodyera repens is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicGoodyera repens is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicGoodyera repens is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Goodyera repens suitable for beginners?
A: No, it is an orchid with specific growing requirements and is best suited for expert growers.
Q: Does Goodyera repens have any medicinal uses?
A: There is no widely documented medicinal use for Goodyera repens.
Q: Can Goodyera repens be grown indoors?
A: It is challenging to grow indoors due to its specific light and humidity needs.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orchidaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to dappled light |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
