Lactuca - PictureThis

Lactuca

Lactuca is a genus of leafy vegetables in the aster family. Several species in this genus are widely cultivated as nutritious vegetable crops, rich in vitamins. While there is some variation in the appearance of the asparagus and cabbage members of the genus, all lactuca are characterized by closely packed, curled leaves.

Scientific classification

Genus

Lactuca (Lactuca)

Family

Daisy

Order

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Lactuca

Species

Prickly lettuce Garden lettuce Canada lettuce Wall lettuce Tall blue lettuce Woodland lettuce Wild lettuce Mountain lettuce Willowleaf lettuce Indian lettuce Blue lettuce Garden lettuce 'Lollo Rossa'Stem lettuce Garden lettuce 'All Year Round'Lactuca triangulata Lettuce

Quickly Identify Lactuca

Basal leaves ranging from broad to curly, colored bright green to deep red-purple.

Milky sap exudes from cut stems, which grow up to 4 feet (120 cm).

Flowers with pale blue rays, no central disks, bloom in loose clusters.

Tiny achenes with white, fluffy pappus aid in wind dispersal for reproduction.

Pinnately veined, deeply-lobed leaves resembling dandelion, measure 3 to 10 inches (7.5 to 25 cm).

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Care Guide for Lactuca

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Lactuca prefers consistently moist soil, reflecting its native habitat. Weekly watering is ideal, and mulching enhances moisture retention, particularly during peak growing seasons when its water needs increase.

Propagation: Propagation of lactuca primarily occurs through seed sowing, requiring sunny conditions, moderate temperatures, and well-draining soil kept moist but not soggy. Steps include preparing soil, spreading seeds, covering lightly, watering gently, and transplanting seedlings after they develop true leaves.

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Learn More About Lactuca

How to Grow and Care

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