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wild plantain
Scientific Name: Heliconia deflexa
Family: Heliconiaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Broadleaf Plantain: A Common and Versatile Wild Edible
Broadleaf Plantain, often considered a common weed, is a wild edible plant with a surprising number of uses.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions various uses of Plantain including consumption of young leaves, flowers, and seeds.
Considerations for Children
- The text mentions various uses of Plantain including consumption of young leaves, flowers, and seeds.
Scientific Name and Common Names
- Scientific Name: Plantago major
- Common Names: Broadleaf Plantain, Common Plantain, Broad-leaf Plantain, Greater Plantago
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Family: Plantaginaceae (Plantain Family)
- Genus: Plantago
- Synonyms or related species mentioned: Plantago lanceolata (Ribwort Plantain), Plantago rugelii (Rugel's Plantain)
Distribution and Habitat
- Originally from Europe, it has naturalized throughout the U.S.
- Commonly found in lawns, fields, and even urban environments.
- The text mentions its presence in Pennsylvania and Minnesota, while noting it's less common in Utah.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Grows from a short, tough rootstock or rhizome.
- Leaves are broad and form a basal rosette.
- Flowers are greenish-yellow, small (3 mm) and form spikes up to 10-14cm long.
- Hairless perennial.
Edibility and Uses
- Young, tender leaves can be eaten raw in salads.
- Leaves, flowers, and seeds are all considered edible.
- Can be sautéed in butter with salt, pepper, and garlic as a side dish.
- Used historically for medicinal properties and herbal uses.
Quirky Facts
- Despite being a common weed, Broadleaf Plantain is a highly nutritious wild edible, high in calcium and vitamins A, C, and K.
- It can be used as a "survival food."