Plantago major 'Purple Perversion'

This is the the common plantain weed that has a long use in traditional medicine. But this one is so, so pretty with large, crinkled, fringed, purple leaves. Purple stalks hold interesting seed pods above the foliage after flowering has finished. These are large, vigorous plants that self-sow and come true from seed. Excellent as ground cover or as a foil in a low-maintenance container. Grows nearly everywhere but purple color is best in full sun.

'Purple Perversion' was bred by nurseryman Joseph Tychonieviech. Here's what he had to say about it:

Yes, this is the all-too familiar weed plantain. But I, on a ridiculous whim, have been collecting odd variants of this plant and breeding them together to create a bizzare dark leaved, ruffled version I call 'Purple Perversion' because it is purple and twisted, and you have to be a little perveted to want to grow it.

Rest assured that it is still a weed, and will seed around like crazy. I'm okay with that, because I figure I'll have plantain in my lawn no matter what I do, so it might as well be fun looking.

Zones: 3 to 9

Family: Plantaginaceae

Type: Perennial

Height: 6 to 12 in.

Spread: 6 to 12 in.

Exposure: full sun

Soil Conditions: dry, moist, average

Bloom Time: May to August

Bloom Color: white

Native Range: Cultivar, species grows in Eurasia