Ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata) is a versatile and hardy perennial wildflower that makes an excellent addition to garden planting, particularly in wildlife-friendly spaces or wildflower meadows. With its slender, lance-shaped leaves and elegant tall flower spikes, it provides subtle texture and visual interest throughout the growing season.
If you’re considering growing ribwort plantain from seed, here are some things to note:
How many grams of ribwort plantain seeds should I buy?
Our 1g seed packets contain approximately 350 ribwort plantain seeds and are ideal for sowing in seedling trays or direct sowing into garden borders. For larger areas, we recommend sowing at a rate of 1g/sqm and increasing to 2g/sqm for densely populated growth.
How do I grow ribwort plantain seeds?
To grow ribwort plantain seeds, scatter them on the soil surface in autumn or early spring. Press them lightly into the soil but don’t bury them too deeply, and keep the soil moist until germination.
Where is the best place to plant ribwort plantain?
Ribwort plantain seeds grow best in full sun or partial shade. They thrive in a variety of soils, including poor and sandy soil, and are ideal for kitchen garden or allotment planting as their tap roots help to break up compacted soils.
When should I plant ribwort plantain seeds?
The ideal time to sow ribwort plantain seeds is in the autumn, as they benefit from a period of cold stratification. Alternatively, you can plant them in early spring.
Are the flowers of ribwort plantain attractive to wildlife?
Yes, Ribwort Plantain serves as a crucial food source for various insects, including butterflies and bees. Its inconspicuous flowers provide nectar for pollinators, contributing to the overall health of ecosystems.
How tall do ribwort plantain plants grow?
Ribwort plantain typically reaches a height of 20–50 cm (8–20 inches), making them suitable for meadows, lawns, or low-maintenance garden borders.
Can I grow ribwort plantain the garden?
Yes, ribwort plantain is perfect for gardens, particularly in wildflower meadows, cottage gardens, or wildlife-friendly areas.
Will ribwort plantain plants spread?
Yes, ribwort plantain can self-seed and spread naturally, especially in open soil. While not invasive, the plants may require some management in smaller gardens.
Is ribwort plantain low maintenance?
Ribwort plantain requires minimal care. Water the plants during prolonged dry spells, and remove flower spikes if you want to reduce self-seeding.
Are plants grown from ribwort plantain seeds edible or medicinal?
Yes, ribwort plantains produce edible leaves that can be used in herbal teas. They’re also known for their traditional medicinal uses, such as soothing minor wounds and coughs.
Is ribwort plantain drought-tolerant?
Yes, ribwort plantain is drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for eco-friendly and low-maintenance lawns and pathways.
Latin name: Plantago lanceolota.
Flowers: April to October.
Height: 50cm to 70cm.
When to sow ribwort plantain seeds: Sow outside in spring after the risk of frost has passed, or throughout the summer. Press the seeds into the soil but do not cover. Keep the area moist until the plants are established.
Sow with: cornflower, oxeye daisy, common knapweed, and common sorrel.
Lifecycle: hardy perennial.
Soil requirement: Ribwort plantain thrives on chalk, clay, loam, and sandy soils.
Natural habitat: bare open ground, and gardens.
Also known as: narrow leaf plantain, English plantain, rib leaf, lamb’s tongue, and buckhorn.
Did you know? Unopened flower heads can be eaten raw and taste similar to raw button mushrooms. The leaves are edible but bitter. To prepare them, remove the veins before dehydrating to create a stock.
Is ribwort plantain safe for animals? Ribwort plantain is one of the most important wild herbs for dogs. When ingested, ribwort works as an expectorant on dogs, loosening mucus and helping to support the bronchial tubes.
