Plantago uliginosa
Plantago uliginosa · Plantaginaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant plantago uliginosa: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Plantaginaceae
- Type
- Perennial herbaceous
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen
- Blooming
- Summer (June to September)
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Hardy (-15°C approximately)
- Natural habitat
- Wetlands and marshy areas
Care
Watering
Plantago uliginosa appreciates constantly moist to wet soils. Keep the substrate fresh, especially during active growth in spring and summer. In winter, reduce watering slightly but never let the soil dry out completely.
Light and Exposure
Place this plant in a sunny to partially shaded location. It tolerates bright environments well but appreciates some afternoon shade in very hot regions. Good light promotes more abundant flowering.
Soil
Choose rich, organic substrate that is peaty or loamy, well-draining yet moisture-retaining. A mixture of potting soil and compost works particularly well. Avoid overly compact or chalky soils.
Fertilization
Apply balanced, diluted fertilizer in spring and early summer, once or twice a month. A plant in naturally humid conditions is not very demanding; focus your feeding during the active growth phase. Reduce all fertilizer in autumn and winter.
Pruning and Maintenance
Cut back lightly after flowering to encourage a more compact form and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Remove dead or diseased leaves as needed. Moderate pruning is sufficient; this species naturally has a discreet shape.
Diseases and Pests
In very humid and poorly ventilated conditions, watch for powdery mildew and root rot. Ensure good air circulation around the plant. Pests are rare; if infestation occurs (aphids, spider mites), isolate the plant and treat with an appropriate product.
Did you know?
The genus Plantago, to which Plantago uliginosa belongs, is among the oldest plants used in traditional phytotherapy. Its leaves, rich in mucilages, long served as a natural remedy in folk medicinal practices. This small marshy herbaceous plant embodies the importance of wetlands, true reservoirs of biodiversity and resources for humanity.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Ivy-leaved toadflaxCymbalaria muralis
- Spike speedwellVeronica spicata
- Heart-leaf Globe DaisyGlobularia cordifolia
- Talus slope penstemonPenstemon digitalis
- Coral plantRusselia equisetiformis
- Bunchleaf penstemonPenstemon heterophyllus
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.