Plantago crassifolia

Physical Characteristics

Plantago crassifolia is a PERENNIAL growing to 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 and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. Europe.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Young leaves - raw or cooked. A famine food, it is only used when all else fails[148].

Medicinal Uses

Laxative 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].

Known Hazards

None known