Plant · P-301

Broadleaf Plantain

Plantago major

Broadleaf Plantain is the medicine-chest weed of the compacted path and driveway edge - crushed leaves are a classic first-aid poultice for wounds and skin inflammation, and the leaf, root and seed all have documented internal uses for digestion and respiratory complaints. It doubles as ground cover and erosion control on bare disturbed ground, and its inconspicuous wind-pollinated flower spike feeds butterfly caterpillars rather than bees. It sets seed on a mucilaginous spike that hitchhikes on boots, tires and animal feet, so it spreads and establishes on its own wherever ground gets compacted.