About
Plantago nivalis, the snow plantain, is a compact, low-growing perennial producing basal rosettes of narrow, silvery-hairy leaves and slender spikes of small, wind-pollinated flowers in summer. A rewarding and ornamental alpine for a sunny, very well-drained rock garden.
About the genus
Plantago, the plantains, are annuals, perennials and subshrubs with simple, broad or narrow leaves in basal rosettes and slender, cylindrical or ovoid spikes of small, wind-pollinated flowers. Most are common grassland plants; some are ornamental.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous, Semi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope, N Asia
Care notes
CultivationMost vigorous in open, sunny sites, but will tolerate a range of positions and soil types, including heavy and compacted soils. See Creating wildflower meadows for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagates by seed, wind pollinated
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free