Plantago afra aka African Plantain

Taxonomy

Common names

African Plantain, Psyllium, Black Psyllium, Glandular Plantain

How to care for African Plantain

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, African Plantain is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

African Plantain should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

African Plantain loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the African Plantain prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Fertilizer

The African Plantain should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.

Region of origin

African Plantain’s native range is S. Europe - Mediterranean.


More info:
Wikipedia