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Wild lettuce Lactuca virosa

Lactuca virosa

Wild Lettuce (Lactuca virosa) is a robust, tall-growing plant known for its medicinal properties and historical use as a natural remedy. With its deeply lobed leaves and small yellow flowers, this plant stands out in wildflower meadows and gardens alike. Its bitter, milky sap has been traditionally used for its calming and pain-relieving effects. Easy to grow in sunny or partially shaded spots, wild lettuce adds both a unique look and herbal value to your garden.

$8.25

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Plant Data
Growing Instructions
Plant Data
Zones:  5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Growth Cycle:  Biennial, Self Seeding Biennial
Light:  Full Sun, Full Sun to Partial Shade
Water Needs:  Low, Low to Moderate, Moderate, Moderate to High, High
Color: 
Soil:  Tolerant of most soils, Well Drained, Chalky, Saline, Peaty, Sandy, Loam, Silty, Clay
Growth Rate:  Moderate to Slow, Slow
Maturity - (Vegetables Only): 
Edible:  Yes.
Height:  Up to 4 Feet, Up to 5 Feet
Evergreen:  No
Special Features:  Medicinal, Flowering, Attracts Pollinators, Fodder and Wildlife , Drought Tolerant, Fast Growing, Disease Resistant,Deer Resistant,Self Seeding,Cold Hardy
Warnings:  Can be Invasive
Growing Instructions
How to Germinate Wild Lettuce

How to Germinate Wild Lettuce (Lactuca virosa)

  • Sow Wild Lettuce seeds directly outdoors in early spring or fall. They can also be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
  • Sprinkle seeds on the soil surface and press them down lightly. Do not cover the seeds, as they require light to germinate.
  • Maintain a soil temperature of 60-70°F (16-21°C) for optimal germination, which typically takes 10-14 days.
  • Keep the soil consistently moist during the germination period, but avoid waterlogging.
  • Once seedlings have several sets of true leaves, thin or transplant them to 8-12 inches apart to allow space for growth.

Additional Tips

  • Wild Lettuce prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-draining soil with moderate fertility.
  • Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods, to ensure healthy growth.
  • Apply mulch around the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
  • Harvest young leaves as needed for the best flavor. Older leaves can become bitter and tough.
  • Wild Lettuce can self-seed if left to flower and go to seed, providing new plants for the next growing season.
Wild lettuce Lactuca virosa

Wild lettuce Lactuca virosa

$8.25