P. major vs P rugelli
Common Plantain is very similar in appearance to the native Plantago rugelii (Black-Seeded Plantain), which is another common lawn weed. The easiest way to distinguish these two species involves an examination of the seed capsules on a a mature floral spike (one that has become purple or brown). Common Plantain has ovoid seed capsules that split open around the middle at maturity. In contrast, Black-Seeded Plantain has oblongoid seed capsules that split open toward the bottom at maturity. By applying pressure with the fingers, it is possible to split open the seed capsules a little prematurely. These two species also differ in the appearance of their seeds and the shape of their sepals. http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/weeds/plants/cm_plantain.htm

Broadleaf plantain is very similar to blackseed plantain. Blackseed plantain leaves are less waxy than those of broadleaf plantain and mostly lacking in hairs. The petiole of blackseed plantain is frequently red-tinged at the base, while that of broadleaf plantain is usually not. http://turfid.ncsu.edu/csPagedPdField.aspx?PlantID=PLAMA & http://turfid.ncsu.edu/csPagedPdField.aspx?PlantID=PLARU



P. virginica
  • Leaves hairy and petioles purple at base, per Forest Plants of the Southeast and Their Wildlife Uses.
  • Upper part of the rachis hidden by flowers or fruit, per Vascular Flora of the Carolinas.

Native American Tribe: Kiowa
Use category: Other
Use sub-category: Ceremonial Items
Notes: Used to make garlands or wreaths worn by old men around their heads for dances as symbol of health
The caterpillars of the butterfly Junonia coenia (Buckeye) and the caterpillars of several species of moths also feed on plantains (see Moth Table); Tiger Moths (Arctiidae) are particularly well-represented in this group. The seeds of plantains are eaten by the Grasshopper Sparrow and possibly other granivorous songbirds. Both tree squirrels and ground squirrels eat the flowering spikes to some extent, while rabbits eat both the spikes and leaves. The Deer Mouse eats the seeds of plantains and many other plants.
P rugelii
  • Leaves glabrous or essentially so, petioles purple, at least at base, per Vascular Flora of the Carolinas.
  • Capsule circumscissile [dehiscing along a transverse circular line like a lid], per Vascular Flora of the Carolinas.
  • Lvs broadly ovate-elliptic, venation parallel, major veins separating at base, per Weakley's Flora.
  • Sepals narrowly elliptic, 2-4x long as wide, mostly acute, per Weakley's Flora.
  • Leaf margins may be wavy with five prominent veins.
  • fibrous-rooted perennial with smooth lower leaves that are oval to elliptical in shape and purplish at the base of the leaf stalk.


This plant is widely regarded as an unattractive weed, but its ecological value, particularly to small animals and moths, is rather high.