Botanical name: Plantago spp. (commonly Plantago lanceolata and Plantago major)
Common Names
Plantain, Ribwort, Broadleaf plantain
Plantain is a common perennial broadleaf weed found throughout Australia, particularly in lawns, sports fields, parks, and compacted soils. It is widespread across Western Australia and is most noticeable during cooler months, although it can persist year-round.
Plantain grows as a low, basal rosette, making it highly tolerant of mowing and foot traffic. It thrives in compacted, poorly aerated soils and is often an indicator of heavy use or underlying soil structure issues.
The leaves vary by species but are typically broad or narrow with prominent parallel veins running the length of the leaf. Ribwort plantain (P. lanceolata) has narrow, upright leaves, while broadleaf plantain (P. major) has wider, oval-shaped leaves.
Plantain produces tall, leafless flower spikes that rise above the rosette, bearing small, inconspicuous flowers that develop into seeds. These seeds are easily spread by foot traffic, mowing equipment, and animals.
Similar Species
Dock (Rumex spp.), Dandelion (Taraxacum spp.)
SCENARIOS AND SOLUTIONS:
Compacted lawns, sports fields, and high-traffic turf areas: Use a selective broadleaf herbicide such as Apparent Bow and Arrow or Apparent 2,4-D Amine to control plantain while maintaining turf. Also use pre-emergent such as Spartan Herbicide for prevention
Poor soil structure or heavy foot traffic areas: Combine herbicide treatment with aeration and soil improvement to reduce recurrence
Along pathways, edges, and disturbed: Apply Apparent Salvo or Apparent Glyphosate to actively growing plants before seed set
References:
https://weeds.brisbane.qld.gov.au/weeds/plantain
https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/weeds/plantain
