Family: Plantaginaceae
Author: Lam.
Bibliography: Tabl. Encycl. 1: 339 (1792)
Year: 1792
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Plantago
Vegetable: False
Observations: Arizona to S. South America
Description
Mexican Plantain: An Overview
The Mexican plantain, with the scientific name Plantago australis, is a resilient and widespread species that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. With origins and habitats stretching from the arid regions of Arizona all the way down to the southern expanses of South America, this adaptable plant is a testament to the versatility and endurance of its genus.
First described in detail within the pages of the “Tableau Encyclopédique” in 1792 by the botanist Lam., Plantago australis has since been recognized for its varied roles in both nature and human use. The year 1792 marked a significant milestone in botany with the formal publication and classification of this species, providing a richer understanding of its botanical characteristics.
The Mexican plantain thrives across a variety of climates and soil types, from temperate to tropical regions. This broad geographical distribution is indicative of its adaptability and the important ecological roles it plays. Acting as ground cover, it helps in soil stabilization and prevents erosion, a crucial function in many of the environments where it is found.
In addition to its ecological contributions, Plantago australis is also valued in traditional medicine within many of the cultures spanning its range. Various parts of the plant, such as leaves and seeds, have been used historically to treat wounds and inflammation, showcasing its importance beyond just a botanical specimen.
Overall, the Mexican plantain is a noteworthy plant both in its botanical merits and its practical applications. Its ability to thrive in diverse environments from Arizona to the southern extremes of South America exemplifies its remarkable adaptability and enduring significance in both ecological and anthropological contexts.
Common Names
Eng: mexican plantain
En: Mexican plantain, Mexican Indianwheat
Synonyms
Distribution
- Argentina Northeast (native)
- Argentina Northwest (native)
- Argentina South (native)
- Arizona (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil South (native)
- Brazil Southeast (native)
- Brazil West-Central (native)
- Chile Central (native)
- Chile North (native)
- Chile South (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- El Salvador (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Juan Fernández Is. (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Paraguay (native)
- Peru (native)
- Uruguay (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Hawaii (introduced)
- Tasmania (introduced)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Habit
Taken Jun 27, 2015 by EOL − Lisa Bennett (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 5, 2021 by Shehadi Ramiz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 9, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 23, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 28, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Feb 5, 2021 by Shehadi Ramiz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 9, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 23, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 28, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 19, 2015 by EOL − johnsteel (cc-by-nc)
Leaf
Taken Jul 23, 2021 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 5, 2021 by Shehadi Ramiz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 3, 2021 by Silva Renata (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 19, 2022 by terry willman (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 7, 2022 by leite Gonçalves Virgílio Antonio (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Jan 3, 2016 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 11, 2021 by Flor Alex (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken May 14, 2022 by Mary Kingfishers (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 20, 2022 by Joao Krahe (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:684911-1)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3189718)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Plantago australis Lam.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb