Hoary Plantain
Plantago virginica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
2"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 34 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Hoary plantain is a low-growing annual wildflower that forms small rosettes of fuzzy, silvery-green leaves. It produces tiny flowers on short spikes from April through June, then completes its life cycle by summer's end.
In an HOA neighborhood
Hoary Plantain takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Commonly considered a lawn weed
- Very informal appearance
- May spread unpredictably as annual
Wildlife value
This native plant provides nectar for small bees and beetles during its spring bloom period. Its seeds also offer food for birds later in the season.
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.
Does Hoary Plantain fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.