About
It forms a loose rosette of green or red-purple leaves which then elongates to a tall flowerhead of small, pale yellow flowers - as seen in all our food lettuces if they 'bolt'. This is the species from which all our lettuce varieties have been bred. Many varieties are available, varying in colour, size and shape, some less-prone to bolting than others.
About the genus
Lactuca can be annuals, biennials, perennials or shrubs, with alternate leaves, milky white sap and daisy-like flowers in white, yellow or blue. The genus includes a wide range of wild plants, as well as species cultivated for their edible leaves (lettuce)
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any moisture retentive soil for more information see lettuce cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to lettuce root aphid
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to grey moulds and downy mildews