Plantain (Weed)

Not to be confused with the banana-like fruit, Plantago is a common broadleaf weed found in lawns and disturbed areas worldwide. English plantain (Plantago lanceolata) is the most allergenic species. It produces small, inconspicuous flower spikes that release moderate amounts of wind-dispersed pollen. Plantain allergy is often underdiagnosed because the plants are so unassuming.

If you're allergic to plantain (weed) pollen, you may also react to:

• Olive (shared Ole e 1-like proteins)
• Ash tree
• Melon (limited cross-reactivity)

• Plantain weed allergy is often missed in testing. If you react during grass season but grass allergy tests are negative, ask about plantain.
• These weeds thrive in compacted soil and are common in lawns, sidewalk cracks, and paths.
• Maintaining a thick, healthy lawn reduces plantain weed growth.