—large-bracted plantain (Plantago aristata)—annual

—Size: 6-12” tall by 6-12” wide

—Site: full sun

—To Propagate: 30 days cold, moist stratification.

One of our native plantains distinct from all others by is dramatic and ornamental long bracts on its flower head.

Large-bracted plantain prefers disturbed areas such as young fields and meadows. In its native habitat large-bracted plantain provides valuable soil stabilization and groundcover until late succession plants come in.

Like many of our other native and non-native plantains large-bracted plantain’s leaves and seeds are edible. Eaten raw or cooked its leaves are best when young as all plantains develop stringy fibers in their leaves as they mature making them less palatable. Plantains are also great for wildlife as many birds and wildlife feed on the seeds.

Being of smaller stature, large-bracted plantain is unassuming until in bloom. Its name comes from its floral bracts which give the spring flower head a fluffy appearance. When in flower the floral display looks every bit like a living candelabra—a great choice as a filler plant to add a touch of whimsy to any flower bed.

Being an annual, large-bracted plantain will happily reseed but is easy to pull to control if need be. Flowers in spring dying down by mid-summer.

Note: If you order more than one lot of one species of seeds, for example you place two orders of 100 seeds, or whatever variation is offered, we assume you want 200 seeds and your order will be sent in one seed packet.