Ribwort Plantain

Ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata), also known as ribgrass, is one of about 200 species of inconspicuous grass-like plants of the plantain family, common to disturbed areas like roadsides and yards. Native to Europe, this plantain is well-established in the U.S., where it can cause headaches to those trying to maintain a "perfect" lawn.

While others might consider it a nuisance, butterfly gardeners may welcome it as plantain is a favored host plant for the lovely Common Buckeye (Junonia coenia). Narrowleaf plantain can grow to about 2 feet high and wide in ideal conditions. To encourage new leaf growth and keep its invasive tendencies in check, trim the inconspicuous flowers before they go to seed.

Plantain species have a long history of medicinal uses, and P. lanceolata is brewed as tea to treat coughs and respiratory illnesses. See more about the possible medicinal uses and cautions for plantain at WebMD.

What's in a name?  Plantago means "footprint", and may better refer to the leaf shape of some of the other species, like Greater Plantain (Plantago major).  Lanceolata means "lance-shaped"; the leaves of this plantain are narrower than some of the other species. An old medieval name for this plant was Quinquenervia, which refers to the five veins seen in some of the leaves (though the number of veins can vary from 3 - 5).