Psyllium, Blond Plantain, Psyllium Seed Husk, Plantain Puce
Plantago psyllium
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Psyllium seeds and husks are a source of dietary fiber, used to aid digestion and relieve constipation. The plant is also used as a ground cover to prevent erosion and can be grown as a green manure. It attracts pollinators to the garden. Different cultivars may vary in fiber content and seed yield.
Permapeople description
Plantago psyllium, commonly known as Fleawort, is a plant native to the Mediterranean region. Its seeds are used as a source of psyllium, a soluble fiber with laxative properties.
Botanical description
Plantago psyllium is an annual herb growing to 10-40 cm tall. The leaves are opposite, linear to narrowly lanceolate, 5-10 cm long and 1-5 mm broad, with entire or finely toothed margins. The flowers are small, white to pinkish, produced in dense cylindrical spikes 1-3 cm long. The seeds are small, oval, brown and mucilaginous when wet.
Companion planting
No specific companion planting information is widely available for Plantago psyllium. However, as a ground cover, it can be used between rows of other crops. Generally considered a beneficial weed, it does not usually inhibit the growth of nearby plants.
Propagation methods
Psyllium is primarily propagated by seed. Seeds should be sown in spring after the last frost. Direct sowing is preferred, as transplanting can be difficult. Self-seeding is common.
History and traditions
Psyllium has been used medicinally for centuries, particularly in traditional Indian and Persian medicine, as a laxative and to treat digestive disorders. It was also used in traditional textiles as a fiber source and dye.
Usage calendar
Sow seeds in spring (March-May). Harvest seeds in late summer (August-September) when the seed heads are dry. Flowering occurs from spring to summer (May-July).