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largebracted plantain

Scientific Name: Plantago aristata

Family: Plantaginaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual, Perennial

Other Names:

       

Largebracted Plantain (Plantago aristata)

Plantago aristata, commonly known as largebracted plantain or bracted plantain, is a member of the Plantaginaceae family (Plantain Family). Other common names include Buckthorn, Bottlebrush plantain, and Western Buckhorn.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant has narrow leaves and spikes with long bracts.
  • It is an annual herb, potentially found in gardens or disturbed areas.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Plantago aristata Michx.
  • Family: Plantaginaceae (Plantain Family)
  • Synonyms: Plantago aristata var. nuttallii, Plantago patagonica var.
  • Other Common Names: largebracted plantain, bracted plantain, Buckthorn, Bottlebrush plantain, Western Buckhorn, Bristly Buckhorn, Western Ripple Grass, Awl-aster, Subulate-bracted Aster.
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the eastern and central United States.
  • Found in open fields and disturbed areas, including roadsides and trails.
  • Prefers sandy, disturbed habitats.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Annual or winter annual herb.
  • Typically lacks a stem.
  • Grows to a small size as a herb.
  • Inflorescence is about 4 cm long with long bract spikes sticking out.
  • Has narrow leaves.
  • Flowers are small and whitish.

Ecological Role

  • Frequently appears in disturbed locations and can be considered a weed.

Quirky Facts

  • One observer initially mistook it for some kind of orchid!

Further Information

  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
  • Brooklyn Botanic Garden New York Metropolitan Flora Project (NYMF) Plantago aristata Photo Page
  • Discover Life: Ecology, identification and distribution of Plantago aristata
  • www.invasive.org/browse/subject.cfm?sub=6197
  • Dave's Garden for gardening tips and ideas