About
This small cos type lettuce, to just over 20cm high, with wavy, glossy dark red leaves that are green at the base, and a crisp green heart. Slow to bolt. Can be sown at closer spacing for baby leaves.
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
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
CultivationGrow in full sun or afternoon shade on moisture-retentive, ideally neutral soil. Water when the soil is dry, ideally early in the morning. Sow a short row every fortnight to ensure continuity of cropping. Use cloches or biodegradable horticultural fleece to protect early and late crops. See lettuce cultivation for more information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to grey moulds; some resistance to downy mildews