Rattlesnake plantain
Goodyera oblongifolia

Family: Orchidaceae

What it is like

An evergreen herb. It grows 40 cm tall. The leaves are in a ring at the base. There are 3-7 leaves in the ring. They are oblong and 3-8 cm long by 2-4 cm wide. They are dark green. The flowers are dull white. They are in spikes at the top of the plant.

Where it is found

It grows in dry or moist shady forests. It can grow from low elevations to mountain regions.

Countries/locations it is found in

Canada, North America, USA

How it is used for food

An exudate from the plant is chewed like chewing gum.

Edible parts

Sap - chewing

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Peramium decipiens (Hook.) Piper; and others