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Heavy metal contamination is an increasingly pressing global ecological concern adversely affecting plant growth. Phytoremediation is an eco-friendly and low-cost approach to help solve this problem by using plants to remove metals. This study aimed to evaluate the phytoremediation potential of four Plantago species, exposing them to different concentrations (0, 150, 300, 600 and 900 ppm) of zinc, copper, and iron during germination and early seedling growth. These are generally the phases of the plant life cycle most sensitive to stress. The germination percentage (GP), mean germination time (MGT), radicle, hypocotyl and cotyledons length, biomass, water content and tolerance index (TI) were recorded under controlled conditions. The results indicated that metal-induced stress significantly reduced GP, increased MGT, and inhibited seedling growth with increased metal concentration. The relative toxicity of the tested metals could be ranked as Fe > Cu > Zn. Regarding the Plantago species, P. tunetana and P. lanceolata could be considered highly tolerant, P. albicans moderately tolerant, and P. afra low-tolerant to metal toxicity during germination. Therefore, P. tunetana and P. lanceolata present an excellent potential for phytoremediation of metal-contaminated zones.

Climate change is threatening environmental and nutritional security. In this scenario, forage crops and their wild relatives may contribute to maintain ecosystem services and minimize the effects of global warming. We reviewed the literature regarding the ecological, agronomic, and nutraceutical values of wild Onobrychis Miller species (sainfoins, Family Fabaceae). We also discussed their application prospects and the existing problems hampering their widespread domestication. Wild species of the genus Onobrychis have some interesting agronomic and ecological features such as perenniality, deep root system, and high-stress tolerance, which make them suitable for future cultivation under climate change. Wild Onobrychis species are multipurpose species, which can be utilized for fodder and honey production under harsh environmental conditions. In addition, wild Onobrychis species water, ethanol, and methanol extracts exhibit antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antimicrobial, anti-stressor, and many other pharmacological effects. Wild Onobrychis species have not been the subject of detailed studies. Compared with the cultivated forage legumes, wild Onobrychis species are still underexploited despite their potential to alleviate forage and food insecurity, either by domestication or by providing novel alleles for breeding purposes of the cultivated species Onobrychis viciifolia. Our review aims to increase scientific awareness toward exploring the potential uses of wild Onobrychis species to tackle current climate change.