Plant Profile

Pale Indian Plantain - (Arnoglossum atriplicifolium) is a native herbaceous perennial in the Asteraceae (Sunflower) family. The Genus name Arnoglossum is derived from the Greek translation for ‘lamb’s tongue’. This particular wildflower has very striking foliage which makes it a statement piece in any setting. Its natural habitat includes mesic forests, woodland edges, savannas, thickets, sand dunes, stream banks, clearings, prairies, and meadows.  

In the Plantain’s first year growing from seed, it will produce rosettes of the showy blue-green foliage. During their second growing season, they will reach maturity and bloom. It is often noted that the leaves appear to be wax-like or even made of plastic. In late fall, these leaves become wonderful pieces to include in dried arrangements. The upper surface of the leaves are medium to dark green, while the underside are a lighter green to white. 

From the basal leaves, a central stalk with alternating leaves develops, growing to up to 9' in height. This stem ends in the form of a flat-topped panicle of flower heads. These flower heads are typically arranged in small clusters of 4 to 15 flower heads with tiny white flowers. Its flowers form in clusters that are open and branched, with heads going in all directions. Its sturdy stems can withstand the weight of its large clusters of flowers, without bending over.  

In order to end up with fertile seeds, the flowers must be cross-pollinated by insects including wasps, small bees and flies. Another benefit of these unique plants is their association with beneficial predatory wasps. Consider using a few of these mighty specimens in any of your native plant projects. It will surely be the talk of the summer season!! Pale Indian Plantain is very versatile and can work in naturalized sites, rock gardens, prairie plantings, and pollinator gardens.