Checkered Rattlesnake Plantain
Goodyera tesselata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
CT, MA, MD, ME and 10 more states
Pollinators
bees, moths
Checkered rattlesnake plantain is a low-growing evergreen perennial with distinctive white-veined leaves arranged in a basal rosette. It produces small white flower spikes in summer and thrives in shaded woodland conditions with consistent moisture.
In an HOA neighborhood
Checkered Rattlesnake Plantain takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Appears very wild and woodland-like
- Too small and informal for typical landscaping
- May look like an unintentional weed to neighbors
Wildlife value
The summer flowers attract bees and moths, providing nectar for pollinators during the mid-growing season.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Checkered Rattlesnake Plantain fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.