Pale Indian Plantain
Arnoglossum atriplicifolium
Last reviewed: June 2026
Pale Indian Plantain is a native wildflower found across the eastern and central United States, blooming with white flowers from May through July. This adaptable perennial attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles in woodland edges and prairies.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
36"–72" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Pale Indian plantain is a tall native perennial with large, triangular leaves and clusters of small white flowers that bloom from May through July. This plant grows 3-6 feet tall with a narrow spread, making it suitable as a background plant or natural screen. It goes dormant in winter, dying back to the ground before returning in spring.
Growing Pale Indian Plantain
Grow Pale Indian Plantain in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 36 to 72 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pale Indian 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.
- Very tall and informal appearance
- Can look weedy when dormant
- Large leaves may appear unkempt to some
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles during the summer blooming period. This native plant provides important nectar sources for pollinators when many other plants are not flowering.
Common questions
- Where does Pale Indian Plantain naturally grow?
- Arnoglossum atriplicifolium is native to 27 states across the eastern and central United States, from Florida north to Minnesota and from the Atlantic coast west to Kansas and Oklahoma.
- When does Pale Indian Plantain bloom?
- This wildflower produces its white flower clusters from May through July, providing nectar for pollinators during the late spring and early summer months.
- What pollinators visit Pale Indian Plantain?
- The flowers attract a diverse range of pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beetles, making it valuable for supporting pollinator populations in native plant gardens.
- What growing conditions does Pale Indian Plantain prefer?
- This adaptable native plant tolerates a wide range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and various moisture levels, though it typically grows best with medium moisture and some sun exposure.
- Is Pale Indian Plantain HOA-friendly?
- Pale Indian 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 Pale Indian Plantain? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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