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Wild lettuce
Also known as: Acrid lettuce, Opium lettuce, Laitue vireuse
Wild lettuce (Lactuca virosa) is commonly found mingling with wildflowers along roadsides and open prairies in the northern hemisphere. Dandelion-like flower shoots can surprisingly reach up to 1.8 m high from the low-mounding foliage, although wild lettuce is actually a distant relative of the Aster!
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Late summer, Early fall
Harvest Time
30 cm to 1.8 m
Plant Height
2.5 cm
Flower Size
Yellow
Flower Color
Deciduous
Leaf type
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature

Images of Wild lettuce

Distribution of Wild lettuce

Distribution Map
'wild lettuce' is indigenous to regions within Europe and North Africa where it thrives in a variety of habitats. This plant has been introduced beyond its native range, notably in parts of the Southern Hemisphere where it has adapted to local conditions.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Grassy places, Roadsides, Canals

Toxicity

Wild lettuce is mildly toxic to humans, causing symptoms like gastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting) and central nervous system effects (dizziness, sleeplessness) when ingested. Poisoning generally results from accidental ingestion. Foragers and herbalists should recognize wild lettuce and understand its risks to avoid unintended exposure.
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Weed Control

Wild lettuce hails from Central and Southern Europe, but has naturalized across much of the globe. Wild lettuce is typically categorized as a weed for several reasons. Firstly, it has a high capability to reproduce and spread rapidly, mainly due to its highly prolific seed production. Secondly, it's a stout and hearty plant, capable of thriving in a variety of environments and it shows significant tolerance to weather fluctuation. This robustness often allows it to out-compete other, more desirable, plants in a garden setting. The plant's aggressive nature can pose a threat to biodiversity, as it may push out other species, alter habitats and reduce overall ecological balance. Wild lettuce primarily spreads by seeds, which are released in large numbers and can be carried by wind or other means, allowing it to invade new areas. The seeds may also be transported on clothing or equipment, or in soil or compost, quickly turning the plant from a minor nuisance into a major invader.
How to Control It
The best season for the removal of wild lettuce is late spring or early summer. It's essential to remove this plant before it reaches its flowering stage to prevent seed spread. Here are some organic or interesting methods for removing or controlling wild lettuce:
  1. Manual Pulling: The most straightforward and environmentally friendly way to get rid of wild lettuce is by pulling it out manually. Ensure you pull out the entire root system to prevent its regeneration. It's best to do this after a rain when the soil is loose.
  2. Smothering: Cut down the wild lettuce as close to the ground as possible. Then, spread a thick layer of newspaper over the area, followed by a 2 to 3-inch layer of mulch. The lack of sunlight and oxygen will eventually kill the plant.
  3. Vinegar Spray: Fill a spray bottle with household white vinegar and directly spray onto the wild lettuce on a hot, sunny day. The acetic acid in the vinegar will burn the plant and kill it. Be careful not to spray on the plants you want to keep as the vinegar is non-selective and would kill them too.
  4. Solarization: This method works best in the hot summer months. Cut down the wild lettuce and water the area well. Then, cover the area with clear plastic tarp and secure it in place. The heat of the sun will bake the soil and kill any remaining plant material or seeds.
  5. Corn Gluten Meal: Spread corn gluten meal, a natural pre-emergent herbicide, on the area where wild lettuce tends to grow in the early spring before the plant has a chance to emerge. This will prevent the seeds from sprouting.
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Care Guide for Wild lettuce

Every week
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
20 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Wild lettuce thrives with consistent hydration, ideally watered weekly to maintain stable moisture levels. Preferring moderate humidity indoors, wild lettuce's water uptake is vital during its active growing season for healthy foliage and growth.
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