Horticulture/Plantago major
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| Broadleaf plantain | |
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| Binomial: | Plantago major |
| Type: | Perennial |
| Conditions: | Compacted soils |
| Seed Dispersal: | On feet, clothing, tools, mowers, etc. |
The Broadleaf Plantain or Greater Plantago (Plantago major) is a member of the plantago family, Plantaginaceae. In North America, this plant is primarily a weed, though it is edible and is used in herbal medicine. The plant is native to Europe, and is believed to be one of the first plants to naturalize in the American colonies.
[edit] Description
[edit] Ecology
This plant does best in compacted soils, and hence is sometimes called "roadweed". It propagates primarily by seeds, which are held on the long, narrow spikes which rise well above the foliage.
The Plant is commonly found on field boundaries as it is tolerant to pestcides and herbicides. It is wind-pollenated, and a cause of summer allergies when in flower.
[edit] Uses
Some cultivars of this plant are used in gardens.
Crushed leaves can be applied directly to the skin to stop bleeding, bee stings and insect bites. Psyllium seeds are a bulk laxative.
The leaves are completely edible, but can be somewhat tough. The taste is that of very bitter salad greens with a lingering aftertaste like spinach. Young leaves are recommended as they are more tender. The leaves when dried make a good tea. The sinews from the broadleaf plantain are very pliable and tough when fresh and/or wettened, and can be used to make small cords or braiding. When dry the sinews harden but also become more brittle.
[edit] Control
- Mowing: Not effective, this is a lawn weed
- Cultivation: Often difficult due the the compacted soils it grows in
- Pulling: Can be difficult to get the entire crown out
- Flame: Quite effective, especially in lawns
- Barriers: Fully effective
- Solarization: Effective
- Grazing: Goats and rabbits provide good grazing
- Nutritional controls: Lightening the soil can help
- Disposal: Hot piles only if seeds are present
