Hoary Plantain (Plantago media) is a drought-tolerant, low-growing wildflower with pale lilac flower spikes, ideal for dry meadows, chalky soils, and pollinator-friendly planting schemes.
Benefits
Native perennial suited to calcareous and nutrient-poor soils
Pale flower spikes attract bees and butterflies
Tolerates drought, mowing, and grazing
Excellent for species-rich grassland creation
Improves soil structure with deep roots
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Hoary Plantain (Plantago media) is a low-growing, native UK wildflower that thrives in dry, well-drained soils and nutrient-poor grasslands. Recognised by its short, broad leaves and soft pink to pale lilac flower spikes, Hoary Plantain offers valuable nectar for bees and butterflies while contributing texture and diversity to wildflower meadows and species-rich verges.
This perennial species is particularly suited to calcareous (chalky) soils and is tolerant of drought, grazing, and mowing, making it ideal for long-term habitat creation in low-fertility conditions. Its deep roots help improve soil structure and stability, supporting healthy ecosystems.
Features & Benefits
Native UK perennial that thrives in dry, poor soils
Pale lilac flower spikes attract bees and butterflies
Tolerates mowing, grazing, and exposed sites
Ideal for calcareous grasslands and meadow creation
Adds subtle colour and structure to low-growing plantings
Latin Name:
Plantago media
Flowering Time:
May – August
Flowering Height:
10 – 40 cm
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Wildflower Seed Approximate Sowing Rate:
1.4kg per acre (3.5kg per hectare)
Sowing Times:
Spring (March – May) or Autumn (August – October)
How to Sow & Preparation
Select a well-drained, low-nutrient site in full sun.
Remove weeds and prepare a fine seedbed, or broadcast into existing grassland.
Sow seed evenly by hand or spreader, lightly press into the soil—do not bury.
Water during dry spells until seedlings establish.
Manage through mowing or grazing to reduce competition and aid establishment.
About John Chambers Wildflower Seeds
John Chambers Wildflower Seeds has been a trusted supplier of native UK wildflower seeds for over 35 years. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced seed and outstanding customer service, John Chambers provides ecological solutions for landscape contractors, local authorities, and conservationists focused on creating sustainable, biodiverse landscapes.
Attribute Detail
Latin Name Plantago media
Flowering Time May – August
Flowering Height 10 – 40 cm
Life Cycle Perennial
Sowing Rate 1.4kg per acre (3.5kg per hectare)
Sowing Period Spring or Autumn
Preferred Conditions Dry, well-drained, low-nutrient or calcareous soils
Pollinator Friendly Yes
Minimum Order Quantity 100g
Ideal For Dry grasslands, meadows, road verges, calcareous soils
