How To Grow Plantain Seeds

How To Grow Plantain Seeds

Updated on Dec 31, 2021
By Shannon McCabe

Latin name Plantago major is an herbaceous perennial member of the Plantaginaceae family. This weedy, easy-to-grow leafy green can easily be cultivated in a range of garden designs, from landscapes to row crops and pots. Young leaves are edible and make a lovely salad or cooked green.


HISTORY

Native to Eurasia, this plant has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Historically used topically as a soothing treatment for stings and bites.

USES

  • Culinary
  • Traditional medicinal
  • Dye plant
  • Ornamental


  • Place seeds in refrigerator for 1 week to hasten germination.
  • Direct sow outdoors in spring, about the time of last frost.
  • Surface sow, gently pressing seeds into soil.
  • Seeds germinate in 14-28 days.
  • Ideal germination temperature is 60-90 F.

  • A very easy-to-grow wild plant.
  • Prefers full to part sun.
  • Provide average to poor, well-drained soil.
  • Space plants 8 inches apart.

PESTS/SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

  • Plantain is a pest- and disease-free plant.

  • To save seed, clip browned seed stalks and allow to dry down on a baking sheet or in a paper bag.
  • Run hands down the stalk to dislodge seeds.
  • Store in a cool, dry, dark place.
  • Also can be vegetatively propagated by root cuttings.