Plantago camtschatica

Cham.

Plantaginaceae Edible: Leaves 343 iNaturalist observations

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Summary

A perennial herb reaching 0.3 m (1 ft) tall. Hermaphroditic and wind-pollinated with self-fertile capability. Thrives in light sandy and medium loamy, well-drained soils across mildly acidic to mildly alkaline pH ranges. Requires full sun and tolerates both dry and moist conditions, including maritime exposure.

Description

A herb. It keeps growing from year to year. It has a long taproot. The leaves are at the base. They are narrowly oval and 3-10 cm long by 1-4 cm wide. The flower spikes are cylinder shaped. They are 3-9 cm tall by 1 cm wide.

Edible Uses

Young leaves can be eaten raw or cooked.

Medicinal Uses

Plantain seeds contain up to 30% mucilage, which swells in the gut and acts as a bulk laxative while soothing irritated membranes; sometimes the husks are used without the seeds.

Distribution

It is a temperate plant. It grows in seaside sandy areas near sea level.

Where It Grows

Asia, China, Japan, Korea, Russia,

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native habitat it should succeed outdoors in most parts of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in any moderately fertile soil in a sunny position.

Propagation

Seed - sow in spring in a cold frame. Prick seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle and plant out in early summer. A direct sowing outdoors in situ can be made in mid to late spring if sufficient seed is available.