Plantago ovata or psyllium is an annual herb that grows to a height of 12 to 18 in.. A large number of flowering shoots arise from the base of the plant. Flowers are numerous, small, and white. Plants flower about 60 days after planting. The seeds are enclosed in capsules that open at maturity.P. ovata is a 119 to 130 day crop that responds well to cool, dry weather.

In India, P. ovata is cultivated mainly in North Gujarat and Rajasthan as a "Rabi" or post rainy season crop (October to March). During this season, which follows the monsoons, average temperatures range between 60 to 85°F and moisture is deficient. Isabgol (P. ovata) which has a moderate water requirement, is given 5 to 6 light irrigations. A very important environmental requirement of this crop is clear, sunny and dry weather preceding harvest. High night temperature and cloudy wet weather close to harvest have a large negative impact on yield. Rainfall on the mature crop may result in shattering and therefore major field losses.

Isabgol grows best on light, well drained, sandy loams. The nutrient requirements of the crop are low.

P. ovata has small seeds, 1000 seeds weigh less than 2 grams. Under ideal conditions of adequate moisture and low temperature (50 to 68°F) 30% of the seed germinates in 5 to 8 days. The seed shows some innate dormancy (3 months) following harvest.

The fields are generally irrigated prior to seeding to achieve ideal soil moisture, to enhance seed soil contact, and to avoid burying the seed too deeply as a result of later irrigations or rainfall. Maximum germination occurs at a seeding depth of 1/4 in. Emerging seedlings are frost sensitive, therefore planting should be delayed until conditions are expected to remain frost free. Seed is broadcast at 5 to 7.5 lb/acre in India

The flower spikes turn reddish brown at ripening, the lower leaves dry and the upper leaves yellow. The crop is harvested in the morning after the dew is gone to minimize shattering and field losses. In India, mature plants are cut 6 in. above the ground and then bound, left for a few days to dry, thrashed, and winnowed.

Harvested seed must be dried below 12% moisture to allow for cleaning, milling, and storage.