Purple lettuce (Prenanthes purpurea)

Purple lettuce

Purple lettuce is a hardy, summer flowering deciduous perennial which can been found at low or high elevations, seemingly preferring well-drained soil. Purple lettuce is named so for its purple-colored hue.

Scientific classification

Species

Purple lettuce (Prenanthes purpurea)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

30 cm to 1.6 m

Plant Height

3 mm

Flower Size

Images of Purple lettuce

Distribution of Purple lettuce

Distribution Map

Purple lettuce is a plant that is native to various parts of southeastern and central Europe. It thrives across temperate zones and mountainous regions of this continent. Additionally, purple lettuce has been introduced to the northern parts of Europe, where it has adapted to local ecosystems and can now be found growing in the wild.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forests, kollin-subalpin(-alpin)

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Purple lettuce

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Purple lettuce thrives in high humidity and needs regular watering for health, ideally every week. While it tolerates drought, it prefers consistent moisture. As an herbaceous perennial, it is best grown outdoors, where rainfall can help during the growing season.

Fertilize: For purple lettuce, use balanced fertilizers for growth. Apply diluted liquid fertilizer bi-weekly in spring and summer, monthly in autumn, and stop in winter. Over-fertilization can harm purple lettuce. Adjustments ensure optimal nutrient intake. Follow label instructions and water purple lettuce before and after application to avoid root burn.

Pruning: Purple lettuce, featuring purple flowers and lettuce-like leaves, benefits from annual pruning in early to late spring. Remove damaged stems and thin crowded areas to enhance light and air circulation, promoting growth. Regular pruning also reduces pests and diseases, ensuring vibrant growth and flowering.

Propagation: Purple lettuce is a perennial herb native to mountainous regions. To propagate, collect dry seeds and sow in well-draining soil under partial shade, maintaining consistent moisture. Thin established seedlings to promote growth, allowing them to thrive with proper care.

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