Plantaginaceae (Plantain Family)

Plantago major

Plantain, Common

Plant Type	Forb
Origin	Europe
Wild/Cultivated	Wild
Flower Color	white
Habitat	Open fields
Description	Somewhat broad oval leaves with distinctly parallell veins arranged in a basal rosette. Flower are small and are arranged along an erect stalk typically 2 to 8 inches tall. Later in the year, tiny green seeds replace the flowers.
Edibility	Leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. Seeds can be eaten raw or cooked as a cereal.
Medicinal Uses	A poultice of the leaves can be effective on bites, stings, or other skin irritations. This poultice will reduce the itch and pain associated with bites and stings.
Other Notes	This plant, and its close relative, the Seaside Plantain were know to some native americans as 'White Man's Footprint' because it would appear near european settlements.

Although every effort has been made to ensure that the material presented here is accurate, the author disclaims all liability resulting from the use or misuse of this information. Please use caution when collecting, preparing, and utilizing these plants, just as you should always use caution and common sense in the outdoors... and also indoors. Come to think of it... just be careful in general. Thanks.

Jan Macario - Contact Me