Minutina, a wild green with flavor
Plantago coronopus
Family: Plantaginaceae
COOL SEASON GREEN
Minutina (also known as buck's-horn plantain or erba stella) is native to the Mediterranean coasts of Europe and Northern Africa, though today it can be found growing world-wide. It was first recorded in Italy in 1586 as a vegetable and was typically used in salads. During Colonial times in America the greens were used for medicinal purposes to treat fevers. The Italian heirloom can withstand mild frosts and grows during the winter in most temperate climates and those with maritime influences. The leaves of Minutina are sometimes used in the traditional Italian salad called misticanza, which translates to “wild greens”.
Minutina grows in a loose rosette pattern with upward shooting leaves that reach approximately 30 centimeters long. They are slender and spiked with forking antler-like horns, hence the name “buckshorn”. Minutina’s affinity for growing in saline soils translates into a unique salty flavor on the palate. The leaves have a crisp yet succulent texture with a flavor likened to a cross of spinach and parsley.
USES
Minutina is a hardy green that may be used fresh or cooked. The leaves should be harvested before flowering occurs because the greens can develop a bitter quality. The new young shoots of the plant are tender and best reserved for raw applications, while larger leaves become fibrous with a sharp flavors that require cooking to soften. Use Minutina in salads and stir fries for texture and salinity. Minutina was used in fancy jellies in America and England during Colonial times. Complimentary flavors include feta cheese, parmesan, garlic, lemon, balsamic vinegar, pears, apples, browned butter, sesame oil, seafood and poultry.
PRESERVATION
Minutina is best used fresh.
GROWING
SEASON & PLANTING
Seed can be started in August and planted throughout the cool season. Plant starters can be used when they become available.
SOIL & NUTRITION
Plant in well-amended garden soil. Feed throughout the season with a general purpose organic fertilizer. This plant can handle less-ideal soils.
TEMPERATURE & SUN EXPOSURE
Plant in full to part sun. Plants can tolerate temperatures down to about the low 20s°F.
WATER
Provide steady, regular water, as usually found in a garden bed.
HARVESTING
Harvest foliage as needed.
WILDLIFE
Does not seem to be bothered by insects.
INVASIVENESS
Minutina does not seem to escape cultivation in our region.