Prickly lettuce (Lactuca sibirica)

Prickly lettuce

Prickly lettuce is a wild lettuce known for hosting rust fungi. Its common name Candy flower comes from its petals which feature pink and white stripes similar to rock candy. It can become weedy, growing in wastelands and areas of human cultivation such as irrigation channels and arable fields.

Scientific classification

Species

Prickly lettuce (Lactuca sibirica)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Purple, Pink

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Distribution of Prickly lettuce

Distribution Map

Prickly lettuce is indigenous to northern and central Asia, also found in parts of northeastern Europe. Having crossed its native borders, prickly lettuce has been introduced and has settled in some regions of northern Europe. Prickly lettuce's range includes a broad span from Siberian expanses to certain Asian territories and encompasses various climatic zones within these major regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Care Guide for Prickly lettuce

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Prickly lettuce thrives in moderate moisture environments, being drought-tolerant and adapted to seasonal precipitation. Watering should occur weekly to mimic its native habitat's conditions, ensuring it aligns with natural rain patterns for optimal growth, particularly in outdoor meadows and fields.

Pruning: Prickly lettuce features prickly leaves and a tall stature, benefiting from annual pruning. Essential techniques include removing dead/damaged foliage and thinning stems for air circulation. Pruning should occur from early to late spring to promote healthy growth, flowering, and to prevent pests.

Propagation: Prickly lettuce propagation involves sowing in well-draining soil with adequate moisture. Lightly cover seeds as minimal coverage is needed. Maintain a stable environment for healthy seedlings, then transplant when sufficiently sized, ensuring ample space for growth.

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Learn More About Prickly lettuce

How to Transplant

How to Prune

How to Grow and Care

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