Buckthorn Plantain

Plantago aristata A. Michaux

Plantaginaceae

This pretty native annual has the characterisitic basal rosette of parallel veined leaves common to the genus Plantago. Not everyone thinks it is desirable though... It is considered a 'noxious weed' in at least one state.

Behind the Name :

Scientific synonyms:

• Plantago aristata var. nuttallii
  
• Plantago patagonica var. aristata

Also commonly known as Bottlebrush Plantain, Indian wheat, and Bracted Plantain.

Plantago -

From the Latin "planta" meaning foot print

aristata -

Long bristle tip

patagonica -

From Patagonia, Argentina

Full Names:

In order to be botanically accurate, I will list the full scientific names including the botanists' names. (Dave says it is overkill, but Oh well.)

• Plantago aristata A. Michaux var. nuttallii (D. Rapin) E. Morris
  
• Plantago patagonica N. von Jacquin var. aristata (A. Michaux) A. Gray

Plantago seeds are appreciated by white-tail deer and northern bobwhites.

[Butterflies]

• Buckeye (Junonia coenia) - larval food

Tags :

native Texas wildflower, Texas native wildflower, Texas native plant, annual, herb, medicinal plant, butterflies, Spring flowers, cream flowers, green flowers, white flowers, garden worthy, pastures, prairies, meadows, plains