Plantago depressa

Physical Characteristics

Plantago depressa is a PERENNIAL. 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 can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Korea, Himalayas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Young leaves - raw or cooked[105]. A famine food, only used when all else fails[177].

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