Blond Psyllium (Plantago ovata)

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

Plantago ovata is a ANNUAL. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

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. The mucilage contained in the seedcoat is used as a stabilizer in ice cream, chocolate etc. Seed - sprouted and eaten in salads. — Young leaves - raw or cooked.; The mucilage contained in the seedcoat is used as a stabilizer in ice cream, chocolate etc.; Seed - sprouted and eaten in salads.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry open places. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)