Broadleaf Plantain

Broadleaf plantain (*Plantago major*) is a perennial flowering plant in the plantain family (Plantaginaceae).

Broadleaf plantain (*Plantago major*) is a perennial flowering plant in the plantain family (Plantaginaceae). Native to Eurasia, it has become widely naturalized across North America and other temperate regions, where it commonly grows in lawns, roadsides, and other disturbed sites. It is also known by names such as common plantain, dooryard plantain, and white man’s footprint.

Description

Broadleaf plantain is a low-growing perennial with a basal rosette of leaves and erect, leafless flower stalks. The leaves are broad, oval to lance-shaped, and usually show several prominent parallel veins. The plant produces leafless flower stalks with small, inconspicuous flowers.

Distribution and habitat

The species is native to Eurasia but is now naturalized across much of North America and other temperate parts of the world. It commonly appears in compacted soils, lawns, turfgrass, gardens, roadsides, and other disturbed habitats.

Uses

Broadleaf plantain has been used historically as a food plant and herbal remedy in various traditions. Sources describe uses of the young leaves as edible greens and the leaves as topical preparations for minor skin irritations and injuries.

Ecology and weed status

Broadleaf plantain is often treated as a common weed because it spreads readily in managed landscapes and tolerates repeated mowing and disturbance. It is one of the best-known weedy members of the plantain family.