Hoary Plantain

Plantago media

Physical Characteristics

Plantago media is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.1 m (0ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind, flies, beetles, bees. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. 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 very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Southern Europe, including Britain, to temperate Asia.

Habitats

Lawn; Meadow;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Edible Uses: Young leaves - raw or cooked[7]. The very young leaves have a fairly mild flavour but with a slight bitterness[K]. Used in salads before they become tough[7]. The inflorescence is sweet and is sucked by children[177, 183].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Demulcent Deobstruent Depurative Diuretic Expectorant Haemostatic Laxative Odontalgic Ophthalmic Refrigerant The leaves, flowering stems and roots are somewhat astringent, deobstruent, depurative, diuretic, expectorant, haemostatic, refrigerant and vulnerary[4, 7]. They are applied externally to skin inflammations, malignant ulcers, cuts etc[4, 7]. A mouthwash made from the leaves helps to relieve toothache and a distilled water is a good eyewash[7]. The seeds are demulcent and laxative[4, 7]. 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