Buckshorn Plantain

Star of the Earth. Plantago coronopus.

A hardy annual, indigenous to Great Britain, France, and other countries of Europe. The root-leaves are put forth horizontally, and spread regularly about a common centre somewhat in the form of a rosette; the flower-stem is leafless, branching, and from eight to ten inches high; flowers yellow; the seeds are quite small, of a clear, brown color, and retain their power of germination three years,—nearly two hundred and thirty thousand are contained in an ounce.

Soil and Cultivation.—It succeeds best in a soil comparatively light; and the seed should be sown in April. Sow thinly, broadcast, or in shallow drills eight inches apart. When the plants are about an inch high, thin them to three or four inches apart.

Use.—The plant is cultivated for its leaves, which are used as a salad. They should be plucked while still young and tender, or when about half grown.