Plantains are common weeds in lawns, athletic fields, ornamental plantings, roadsides, and pastures. Two species, broadleaf and buckhorn plantains (Plantago major and P. lanceolate) are commonly found throughout California year-round.
These weeds are difficult to control because they can resprout from the crown, even after it's cut off. Early removal of seedlings before they establish dense crowns can be effective as well as mulching with landscape fabrics in ornamental plantings.
For more information on management, see the newly revised Pest Notes: Plantains. UCCE Advisor Maggie Reiter provides new color photos and references, updated species information, and an expanded section on currently registered herbicides to control plantains in California.