NC State Extension Publications

Description

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Broadleaf plantain (Plantago major) is very similar to blackseed plantain. Blackseed plantain leaves are less waxy than those of broadleaf plantain and mostly lacking in hairs. The petiole of blackseed plantain is frequently red-tinged at the base, while that of broadleaf plantain is usually not.

Cultural Control

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Perennial broadleaf turf weeds are capable of living more than two years. They thrive in weak, thin turf; golf fairways and roughs; home lawns; playfields; and industrial grounds. Proper turf maintenance is the key to control of this weed. First, select adapted turfgrass cultivars for your area and then properly fertilize, mow, and water to encourage dense growth.

Species Data

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  • GROWTH SEASON / LIFE CYCLE
    • perennial weed
  • GROWTH HABIT
  • LEAFLET NUMBER
    • one
  • LEAF MARGIN
    • smooth; sometimes irregularly toothed, wavy
  • LEAF HAIRS
    • upper/lower surface; short
  • LEAF / LEAFLET SHAPE
  • LEAF WIDTH
    • 1 inch to greater than 2 inches
  • LEAF VENATION
    • somewhat parallel
  • LEAF ARRANGEMENT
    • whorled or basal rosette; leaves lack dark markings like those of blackseed plantain
  • ROOT TYPE
    • many fibrous roots arise from the taproot
      Figure 11
  • FLOWER COLOR
    • white; inconspicuous
Broadleaf plantain growth habit.

Figure 1. Broadleaf plantain growth habit.

Broadleaf plantain growth habit.

Figure 2. Broadleaf plantain growth habit.

Broadleaf plantain growth habit.

Figure 3. Broadleaf plantain growth habit.

Broadleaf plantain growth habit.

Figure 4. Broadleaf plantain growth habit.

Broadleaf plantain growth habit.

Figure 5. Broadleaf plantain growth habit.

Broadleaf plantain growth habit.

Figure 6. Broadleaf plantain growth habit.

Broadleaf plantain growth habit.

Figure 7. Broadleaf plantain growth habit.

Broadleaf plantain leaf shape.

Figure 8. Broadleaf plantain leaf shape.

Broadleaf plantain leaf shape.

Figure 9. Broadleaf plantain leaf shape.

Broadleaf plantain leaf shape.

Figure 10. Broadleaf plantain leaf shape.

Broadleaf plantain root type.

Figure 11. Broadleaf plantain root type.

Author

Extension Specialist (Turfgrass/Forage Crop Weed Mgt)
Crop & Soil Sciences

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Publication date: Nov. 22, 2017

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