Can Hermann's Tortoises eat Ribwort Plantain?
Plantago lanceolata
Safety verdict
Caution
Why
[confidence: high] [source: The Tortoise Table plant database (www.thetortoisetable.org.uk) and exotic reptile veterinary dietary review for Testudo hermanni] Ribwort Plantain (Plantago lanceolata) is generally considered a suitable and commonly fed weed for Hermann's Tortoises, but it contains moderate levels of aucubin (an iridoid glycoside) and tannins that may cause digestive upset if fed in very large quantities exclusively. It is widely accepted as part of a varied diet but should not be the sole forage offered.
How much / how often
Can be offered several times per week as part of a varied diet; avoid feeding as the sole or dominant food source over extended periods.
Preparation
Offer fresh, unwashed leaves sourced from pesticide-free and herbicide-free areas; avoid plants collected roadside or from treated lawns.
Nutrition (per 100 g)
184 mg
Calcium
52 mg
Phosphorus
3.5:1
Ca:P ratio
none
Oxalate
2.4 g
Protein
2.9 g
Fiber
Reviewed by admin on May 2026