Presented in Association with the Western New Mexico University Department
of Natural Sciences
Plantaginaceae (Plantain Family)
The Plantaginaceae have been greatly expanded by recommendations from the APG II (Angiosperm Phylogeny Group II of 2003.) Previously, the only native genus in New Mexico was Plantago. Now, based on genetic information, Penstemons have been added along with Veronica and other genera. These genera were formerly of the Scrophulariaceae. It is difficult to give a short, concise description of this family, since it is defined genetically rather than morphologically to a great extent.