Plantago major aka Common Plantain

Plantago major is common plantain, also called broad-leaved plantain. This evergreen perennial belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. Its native range spans Europe and northern and central Asia. It is native to Britain and Ireland too. Human activity has spread it through much of the world. It grows in lawns, fields, roadsides, and disturbed ground. It is not related to the banana called plantain.

The plant forms low clumps with a basal leaf rosette. Garden height and spread range from 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. Exceptional plants can reach 2.3 feet [0.7 metres] tall. Broad, oval leaves have a firm, leathery feel. Five to seven strong veins run from each leaf base. The upper leaf surface is darker than the underside. Fine hairs may grow along the veins below. Smooth green flower stems rise above the leaves. These stems have no leaves or branches.

Small flowers crowd into narrow spikes from April to September. Their shades range from greenish brown to brownish purple. The stamens may be white or purple. Both wind and self-pollination help the plant set seed. Each capsule opens across its middle and holds 6–20 seeds. The brown seeds have glossy surfaces and small ridges. One plant can produce about 20,000 seeds. Birds eat the oil-rich seeds, and butterfly caterpillars feed on the plant.

Common plantain grows best in sun but accepts partial shade. It prefers moist soil that drains well. It grows in sand, loam, chalk, and clay. It also tolerates acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Compacted ground, repeated trampling, and salt pose little trouble. Its low leaves help it survive mowing. Sources rate it for USDA zones 3–12 and UK H7. It needs little care, but spreads fast through seed. Remove plants before they set seed to limit spread. Aphids, red spider mites, and mildews may occur.

The plant suits wildlife gardens, meadows, and edible plots. Its roots help loosen hard soil and limit erosion. It can also serve as ground cover. Young leaves are edible raw or cooked. Older leaves are stringy, and the taste can be bitter. Removing tough fibres and blanching leaves can improve their texture. Seeds and roots are edible; dried leaves can make tea. People have used the leaves for cuts, bites, and stings. These traditional uses do not establish treatment safety. Large amounts may lower blood pressure or cause diarrhoea. Skin contact may cause an allergic rash. Roadside plants may contain lead or cadmium.