Ribwort Plantain (Plantago lanceolata)

Family: Plantaginaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Plantago lanceolata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to August, and the seeds ripen from June to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind, flies, beetles. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young leaves - raw or cooked. They are rather bitter and very tedious to prepare, the fibrous strands are best removed prior to eating. The very young leaves are somewhat better and are less fibrous. Seed - cooked. Used like sago. — Young leaves - raw or cooked.; They are rather bitter and very tedious to prepare, the fibrous strands are best removed prior to eating.; The very young leaves are somewhat better and are less fibrous.; The seed can be ground into a powder and added to flours when making bread, cakes or whatever.

Habitat & North American Range

Grassland, roadsides etc, a common weed of lawns and cultivated ground, on neutral and basic soils. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)