Plantago (Englishman's foot) — Herbaceous perennial, Subshrub

Overview

Plantago is a herbaceous perennial, subshrub herbaceous perennial in the genus Plantago, part of the Plantaginaceae family, with broad or narrow leaves foliage. Plantago grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include ground cover, edible leaves and medicinal uses.

About

Plantago is a genus of about 200 species of flowering plants in the family Plantaginaceae, commonly called plantains or fleaworts. The common name plantain is shared with the unrelated cooking plantain.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Plantago

Sunlight: Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Plantago size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Herbaceous perennial, Subshrub
Foliage: Broad or narrow leaves
Suggested uses: Ground cover, Edible leaves, Medicinal uses

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Plantago

Propagation: Seed, Division, Root cuttings
Pest resistance: Generally pest-resistant
Disease resistance: Generally disease-resistant

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Plantago?

Plantago prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Plantago need?

Plantago is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Plantago hardy in the UK?

Plantago has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Plantago?

Seed, Division, Root cuttings.

More in the Plantago genus

Browse all Plantago →