Ribwort Plantain is a
native
perennial plant of the UK, typically found growing in grassland, waste ground or cultivated land, to a mature height of up to 50cm.
The Ribwort Plantain is distinguished from other plantains by: its pronounced parallel veins, running the length of its elongated leaves; its relatively short brown compound flowerhead spikes with long brown stalks; its simple brown flowers, borne in whorls around the flowerhead; and its relatively short stamen filaments, terminating in cream anthers.
Botanic classification and naming: Ribwort Plantain is a member of the Plantain (Plantaginaceae) family. The genus name
'Plantago' identifies the plant as a Plantain and its species name 'lanceolata' means 'lance-shaped (leaves)'.
Benefits: Pollinated by flies and beetles. A food source for butterfly caterpillars of the Heath Fritillary and Glanville Fritillary. The seed heads also provide a winter food source for birds.
Benefits to wildlife are also indicated with orange icons in the plant profile bar at the top.
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