English Plantain

(Plantago lanceolata)

Plantaginaceae

This pretty non-native was introduced from Europe. It grows in scattered locations in Texas, blooming mostly April-May. Although pretty, it is considered an invasive/noxious weed which displaces the native plants as it spreads.

In common with some of the other members of the Plantain family, this plant has historic use as a medicinal herb. The leaves were the valued part, though, not the seeds. They were used in teas to treat diarrhea and as a poultice to speed the healing of wounds.

Behind the Name :

Commonly known by varied names including: ribwort, buckhorn plantain (compare to buckthorn plantain), narrowleaf plantain, lanceleaf plantain and ribgrass.

Scientific synonyms include: Plantago altissima and Plantago lanceolata var. sphaerostachya.

Plantago -

From the Latin "planta" meaning foot print

lanceolata -

Lance-shaped; referring to the leaves

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

[Butterflies]

• Buckeye (Junonia coenia) - larval food

Tags :

Texas wildflower, Texas non-native plant, alien plant, biennial, perennial, herb, full sun, medicinal plant, butterflies, Spring flowers, cream flowers, green flowers, white flowers, pastures, prairies, meadows, plains, fields, disturbed sites, roadsides, lawns