Names and Myths

Plantago Latin planta footprint – related to large leaves lying flat on the ground.

 major larger

Natural history / Folklore

This species is a world wide weed. The leaves have been cooked and eaten and the seed can be ground into flour.²⁶ The plant has been used for the treatment of a wide range of disorders, ranging from abrasions to ulceration of the skin, its effectiveness is most likely due to its being rich in potassium salts. The young leaves have a mild laxative and should be eaten in small doses.⁵⁷

Description

May to October Narrow basal leaves 1-4 cm in width and 8-30 cm long are a chief characteristic.