Sea Plantain (Plantago maritima)

Family: Plantaginaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Plantago maritima is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 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 June to August, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. 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

delicious flavour. — Young leaves - raw or cooked.; A delicious flavour.; This is one of the nicer-tasting members of the genus, the leaves are fairly low in fibres and make an acceptable addition to a mixed salad.; The leaves are canned for winter use in Alaska.

Habitat & North American Range

Short turf in salt marshes near the sea and by streams in mountains, usually in saline or wet soils. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)