I like Plantago lanceolata, Narrowleaf Plantain. This is my excuse for leaving it unmolested in the lawn, but if you take a close look at the inflorescences, you see their charm. These tiny white anthers are attached to the stamens in such a way that they quiver and dance with the slightest breeze. They're never quite still.
- USDA Plants Database entry for Plantago lanceolata.
- Australian Naturopathic Network's entry for Plantago lanceolata gives an interesting history of its uses, medicinal and otherwise.
I've never taken so close a look before. Far out.
ReplyDeleteStrange, aren't they?
ReplyDeleteAvid mowers in the Hannibal region call plantains "buckhorn" or sometimes "buckeye". These plants have a genius for waiting until just after a mowing to pop up their flower-stalks.
ReplyDeleteNice close-up shot!
I've never heard those names, Larry. Thanks for sharing them.
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