Best time to see: Apr to Oct

Key facts

One of the commonest european plants, found in almost any grassy place and on waste ground

Sword-shaped green leaves form a rosette at the base; flowers are like small bristly cigars on stems up to 50cm

Common plantain has shorter, broader leaves and longer, thinner flower spikes

Extras

Seedheads remain over-winter, providing food for seed-eaters such as goldfinches