Plantago rugelii (Fr: plantain de Rugel | En: American plantain)

American Plantain

Plantago rugelii
Alternative names: Rugel’s Plantain, Black-seed plantain, Pale plantain
French: Plantain de Rugel

Plantago rugelii, or American Plantain, is a lesser-known native relative of the introduced Common Plantain (Plantago major), but it has distinct features that set it apart: red-tinted leaf stalks, black seeds, and lush, vibrant foliage.

It thrives in disturbed, compacted soils, especially along trails, pathways, and other high-traffic areas. This makes it an excellent native alternative for groundcover in urban and semi-natural landscapes.

American Plantain is easy to grow and supports a variety of native insects, including leaf miners, grasshoppers, and even butterfly caterpillars. It is a low-growing, herbaceous perennial that tolerates a range of soils and light conditions, preferring moderate to moist soils and full sun to part shade.

This species is also edible. The young leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, though they tend to become tough and bitter later in the season. Historically, the plant has also been used medicinally for minor cuts and skin irritations.

Height: 10 to 30 cm
Bloom time: Summer
Light: Full sun to part shade
Moisture: Moderate to moist
Soil: Variable, including compacted soils
Habitat: Disturbed areas, trail edges, compacted soils
Ecological benefits: Supports native insects and herbivores
Edible: Yes – young leaves edible raw or cooked; older leaves tough and bitter