Etymology: Plantago: from Latin planta meaning "foot print"
Plants: erect, annual/biennial/perennial, 1 1/2'- 2' tall forb; fibrous roots
Leaves: usually pointing upward, 4"-16" long, narrowly elliptical with a pointed tip, and 3 to several parallel veins
Flowers: white, 4-parted, 1/8" long; inflorescence a 1"-3", very dense, oval to cylindrical, 1/3" thick spike; blooms June-Aug.
Habitat: disturbed sites, lawns
Conservation Status: Introduced - naturalized

Floristic Rating: Wetland Indicator = FAC USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. David G. Smith's "Delaware Wilflowers": Beautiful photographs; descriptions Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key Southwest School of Botanical Medicine: Britton & Brown Illustrated Flora - 2nd Edition (1913) "An Illustrated Flora of the Northern United States and Canada"