Plantago asiatica aka Asian Plantain

Plantago asiatica is a perennial in the plantain family, Plantaginaceae. It also has the common name Che Qian Zi. Its native range lies in Asia, across temperate and tropical regions. Records include China, Korea, Japan, Taiwan, India, Indochina and Malaysia. In Japan, it grows in woods and on waste ground. These sites range from lowlands to mountain areas. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

The plant reaches about 1.6 feet (0.5 metres) in height. Its spread is about 1 foot (0.3 metres). It flowers from July to August. Each flower has both male and female parts. Wind carries the pollen, and the plant can fertilise itself. Some botanists have treated it as a subspecies of Plantago major. The supplied sources treat it here as a separate species.

Grow it in sun or partial shade, with moist soil. It suits sandy soil, loam and clay, provided water drains well. Moderately fertile soil is enough for cultivation. It accepts mildly acid, neutral and mildly alkaline conditions. Suggested garden sites include beds and the edges of woodland. Dappled shade is another option where the soil stays moist. PFAF lists USDA zones 5–9 and survival down to at least −15°C. It also describes the plant as tolerant of frost.

Young leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. They taste slightly bitter and become fibrous as they age. The youngest growth therefore has the best texture for eating. PFAF also lists the seeds as an edible part. It gives the plant a low food-use score. The same source reports no known hazards. That statement does not establish safety for every person or pet. Its account does not identify specific pests or diseases.

Leaves and seeds have a history of medicinal use. Reported uses include remedies for coughs, urinary complaints and inflammation. PFAF rates its medicinal value above its food value. These reports describe uses, rather than proof of treatment benefits. Leaves may be gathered during growth and used fresh or dried. PFAF also lists a use for gathering nutrients from soil. Seeds can be started in a cold frame in spring. Move young plants into pots before planting out in early summer. Direct sowing outdoors is another option in mid to late spring.