Thick-Leaved Plantain
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(Plantago crassifolia)
Thick-Leaved Plantain (Plantago crassifolia)
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© Thomas Koffel
CC BY 4.0
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© Thomas Koffel
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Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: © Thomas Koffel | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Uploader: tkoffel | Publisher: iNaturalist |
Summary
Plantago crassifolia, commonly known as Thick-Leaved Plantain, is an evergreen perennial herb native to the Mediterranean Basin, typically found in coastal areas, maquis, and garigue habitats. It is well-adapted to dry, rocky places and thrives in a Mediterranean climate. This plant reaches a modest height and width of 0.3-1 feet (0.09-0.3 meters), forming a dense rosette of fleshy, oval to lance-shaped leaves. The white flowers are small and inconspicuous, appearing on slender spikes in the spring. Despite their lack of showiness, they are important for local pollinators.
Thick-Leaved Plantain is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also used for its medicinal properties, as the leaves have been traditionally used to treat wounds and inflammation. In cultivation, it requires minimal care, preferring full sun to part shade and well-draining sandy or loamy soils. It is seldom affected by pests or diseases, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. While not aggressive, it can self-seed in favorable conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0
Thick-Leaved Plantain is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also used for its medicinal properties, as the leaves have been traditionally used to treat wounds and inflammation. In cultivation, it requires minimal care, preferring full sun to part shade and well-draining sandy or loamy soils. It is seldom affected by pests or diseases, making it a low-maintenance option for gardeners. While not aggressive, it can self-seed in favorable conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 0.3-1 feet
- Width: 0.3-1 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden
Natural Habitat
Native to coastal areas, maquis, and garigue habitats in the Mediterranean Basin
Other Names
Common Names: Broadleaf Plantain, Thickleaf Plantain
Scientific Names: Plantago crassifolia, Plantaginella crassifolia, Plantago carnosa, Plantago crassifolia var. compacta, Plantago crassifolia var. crassifolia, Plantago falcifolia, Plantago maritima, Plantago maritima subsp. crassifolia, Plantago maritima var. crassifolia
GBIF Accepted Name: Plantago crassifolia