About
An oakleaf lettuce with glossy, very dark red leaves. Resistant to downy mildew and aphid.
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, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitTufted
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, moisture-retentive soil. Thin plants to 25cm apart and keep well watered. Early and late sowings can be made under glass. See RHS GYO advice on lettuce cultivation for further information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in shallow drills. Successional sowings from spring to summer will ensure a steady supply
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free