Ribwort Plantain is a very common wildflower. It consists of a basal rosette of thin leaves and thin flower stems topped by unusual flowers. It is found in grasslands, fields, lawns, meadows, verges, field edges. It grows to about 50 cm high and flowers April to October.
Wildlife Value of Ribwort Plantain
Ribwort Plantain is attractive to moths and hoverflies. The seedheads provide a good source of food for Goldfinches and other birds.
Medicinal Uses of Ribwort Plantain
*This is not a prescription for use. Always consult a qualified herbalist before using, particularly if you are pregnant or have underlying health conditions*
Ribwort Plantain is used as an antihistamine and is good for insect stings/bites and nettle stings. The leaves can be made into a tea for coughs. It is also antifungal, antioxidant and analgesic. Its roots, apparently, are a good antidote to rattlesnake bites.
