Broadleaf Plantain - Plantago spp.

Plantain, not to be confused with the banana relative is a small perennial rosette herb plant native to most of Eurasia and has been spread by human activity throughout the world. More common in cooler climates, it's relatively rare in Florida, and deserves a spot in most herb gardens.

Tolerant of horrible compacted soil we find its foliage is much more tender and abundant when planted in somewhat well amended soil. Like many northern plants, it prefers some degree of shade in the hottest times of the day here. 

Although the mineral rich leaves new growth is edible raw, and older tougher leaves can be cooked we find its most useful properties is as the best insect sting/bite relief plant we grow- our food forest and gardens are adjacent to a lake and large marshy area so mosquito bites and other insect stings are a part of life for us, fresh plantain leaves can be crumpled and rubbed on insect bites to relieve itching. Like all herbal/folk remedies please consult a health professional before attempting to utilize yourself.