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Heartleaf Plantain

Plantago cordata

Last reviewed: July 2026

Heartleaf Plantain (Plantago cordata)
Photo: Steve Olson. USDA SCS. 1989. Midwest wetland flora: Field office illustrated guide to plant species. Midwest National Technical Center, Lincoln. Courtesy of USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part shade

Water

high

Size

4"–12" H × 4"–8" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AL, AR, FL, GA and 14 more states

Pollinators

bees, flies

Heartleaf plantain is a low-growing native wildflower with distinctive heart-shaped leaves and tall, slender flower spikes. This moisture-loving perennial thrives in shaded areas and produces white flower spikes from late spring through summer. It forms neat, compact clumps that work well as groundcover in wet, shady spots.

In an HOA neighborhood

Heartleaf Plantain takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Plantain name carries weedy associations
  • Informal wildflower appearance may not meet landscaping standards
  • Requires consistently moist soil which can look unkempt

Wildlife value

The long-blooming flower spikes attract bees and beneficial flies throughout the growing season. Seeds may provide food for small birds and wildlife.

Common questions

How much sun does Heartleaf Plantain need?
Heartleaf Plantain grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Heartleaf Plantain bloom?
Heartleaf Plantain blooms in May, June, July, and August.
Where is Heartleaf Plantain native?
Heartleaf Plantain (Plantago cordata) is native to AL, AR, FL, GA and 14 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Heartleaf Plantain attract?
Heartleaf Plantain draws bees and flies.
Is Heartleaf Plantain HOA-friendly?
Heartleaf Plantain takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Heartleaf Plantain? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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