Mexican Plantain

Plantago australis

Physical Characteristics

Plantago australis is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

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Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Young leaves - raw or cooked.

Medicinal Uses

Laxative Poultice Plantain seeds contain up to 30% mucilage which swells up in the gut, acting as a bulk laxative and soothing irritated membranes[238]. Sometimes the seed husks are used without the seeds[238]. A poultice of the leaves has been used in the treatment of cuts and boils[257].

Known Hazards

None known