Prairie Indian-Plantain

Arnoglossum plantagineum  

This species is shorter than other Indian-Plantains. Basal leaves, on long stalks, are large (up to 8 inches long), broadly ovate or cordate, with edges that are serrated with large, blunt teeth. From this base emerges an erect, thick, round stem of green, turning reddish or with reddish vertical veins, atop which sits a flat-topped panicle up to 8 inches or more acdross, consisting of many small white flowers (each about 1/4 inch long). Leaves along the main stem are smaller. After blooming, seeds and a fluffy pappus form, which carry the seeds away on the wind.

There seems to be some confusion in the taxonomy of the Indian-Plantains, in particular between this species (if it is a species) and Tuberous Indian- Plantain, which some also consider to be A. plantagineum. However, the leaves of Tuberous Indian-Plantain are thick (meaty) and have smooth edges, whereas the plant depicted here has thinner leaves and toothed edges. Perhaps the confusion is solely my own, but these do not seem to be the same plant.

3-4 feet, sun - partial sun.

Summer (June-September).

   The flowers beginning to open.

24 June 2020.

Prairie Indian-Plantain, 22 June 2020.

Pappus at end of the flowering season.

15 August 2020.