Plantago maritima

Plantago maritima

Plant Family

Plantaginaceae

Botanical Description

Sea Plantain is a perennial herb growing 5-30 cm tall with narrow, fleshy, linear leaves in a basal rosette. The leaves are succulent and salty-tasting, adapted to saline coastal environments. Small brownish flowers appear on slender spikes from June to September.

Cautions

Generally considered safe. May have mild diuretic effects.

Habitat

Coastal areas, salt marshes, sea cliffs, and rocky shores.

Harvest Instructions

Harvest young leaves throughout the growing season. Best picked before flowering for culinary use.

Geographic Distribution

Native to coastal areas of Europe, North America, and northern Asia including Iceland.

Growth Conditions

Tolerates salt spray and saline soils. Full sun. Well-drained to moist soil.

Plant Size

5-30 cm

Pests & Diseases

Generally pest and disease free.

Effects on the Body

Soothes mucous membranes, mild diuretic effect, supports respiratory health. Similar to but milder than common plantain.

Active Constituents

Mucilage, tannins, aucubin, minerals (particularly iodine from coastal environment).

Safety Information

Dosage

Tea: 1-2 teaspoons dried leaves in 250 ml boiling water, steep 10 minutes. Fresh leaves can be eaten directly.

Culinary Use

Young leaves eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. Salty flavor makes them a natural seasoning. Popular in Nordic and coastal cuisines.

Folklore & Historical Use

Used as a survival food in coastal communities. Important food source during times of scarcity in Iceland and Scandinavia.

Scientific Research

Limited clinical research specific to this species. Related species Plantago lanceolata has documented demulcent and expectorant properties. Contains mucilage, aucubin, and tannins with established biological activities.