Weed of the Week: Buckhorn Plantain

Buckhorn Plantain (Plantago lanceolata)

Buckhorn Plantain is a perennial broadleaf weed that is commonly found across Canada and the US.  It is typically found on sites that are dry and have basic to neutral soil pH conditions.  The leaves develop in a basal rosette and are long and slender with distinctive parallel venation.  The main growth period is from June through to September.  A dense fibrous root system allows it to survive low mowing heights .  Cylindrical spike seedheads form on long stalks that can reach heights of 2 feet, but are generally removed and cut off during mowing practices.

Life Cycle – Perennial broadleaf weed

Growth Habit – Basal rosette

Leaves – Leaf magins are smooth, long slender leaves about 1” wide, lanceolate to elliptic shape

Roots – Fibrous roots

Flower Colour – Inconspicuous (small white), flower stalks grow as tall as 2 feet

Control – Easy to control

If Buckhorn Plantain becomes a problem in dense established turf, selective post emergent weed control products are effective.  

 

Find out more about Fiesta Weed Control.