Can Russian Tortoises eat Ribwort Plantain?
Plantago lanceolata
Safety verdict
Caution
Why
[confidence: high] [source: The Tortoise Table plant database (thetortoisetable.org.uk) and a review by an exotic reptile veterinarian specializing in chelonians.] Ribwort Plantain (Plantago lanceolata) is generally considered a suitable forage plant for Russian Tortoises and is widely accepted in tortoise husbandry, but it contains moderate levels of tannins and aucubin (an iridoid glycoside) that may cause digestive upset if consumed in very large quantities. It is best offered as part of a varied diet rather than a dietary staple.
How much / how often
Can be offered several times per week in moderate amounts as part of a diverse weed-based diet; avoid making it the sole or dominant food source.
Preparation
Offer fresh and unwashed from pesticide-free, pollution-free areas; remove any yellowed or diseased leaves before feeding.
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