Genus: Goodyera for John Goodyear, a 17th century English botanist
Species: oblongifolia means 'oblong-leaved'
aka Large Rattlesnake Orchid, Green-leaf Rattlesnake Plantain. The highly distinctive leaves so dominant the character of this plant that the beauty of the flowers is easily overlooked. They are, for after all, orchids! The greenish-white flowers are only 1/4 - 3/8" (6 - 8 mm) clustered in one direction on the stem which rises 1/2 - 1 1/2'. The leaves form a rosette at the base. Their central white strip and texture give a mottling effect, thus the rattlesnake resemblance. Common in shady forests in more dry conditions below 4,500' elevation. (ref. Blackwell)
Trail Notes:
Trail/Hike: WLT/White River
Date: August 12, 2007
Location: approx. 0.50 mi. from crossing of White River to White River campground
