Lettuce

Lactuca sativa

Asteraceae · vegetables · Mediterranean

EdibleLow Maintenance

About Lettuce

The foundation of salad gardens, available in hundreds of varieties from crisp iceberg to tender butterhead. A cool-season crop that can be harvested as baby greens in just 21 days from seed.

Growing Conditions

☀️

Sun

Part Shade to Full Sun

💧💧

Water

Medium

🌱

Soil

Rich, Moist

📈

Growth Rate

Fast

🌸

Bloom Season

Spring, Fall

🌈

Bloom Color

Yellow (insignificant)

Size & Dimensions

Height

Spread

Hardiness Zone Range

Suitable for USDA Zones 2 through 11

Plant Details

Family	Asteraceae
Category	Vegetables
Native Region	Mediterranean
Scientific Name	Lactuca sativa

Care Tips

✓Plant in cool weather — bolts in heat.
✓Succession sow every 2 weeks.
✓Harvest outer leaves for cut-and-come-again.
✓Provide afternoon shade in warm climates.

Fun Facts

★Ancient Egyptians first cultivated lettuce — it appeared in tomb paintings from 4500 BC.
★Iceberg lettuce got its name from being shipped under ice in the early 1900s.
★Contains lactucarium, a mild sedative.

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Data verified: 2026-04

USDA Plants Database Missouri Botanical Garden

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones can Lettuce grow in?

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) thrives in USDA hardiness zones 2 through 11. This means it can tolerate winter temperatures typical of these zones. Check your local zone to ensure it is suitable for your area.

How much sun and water does Lettuce need?

Lettuce requires part shade to full sun and has medium water needs. It grows best in rich, moist soil. Regular watering is recommended, especially during dry periods.

How tall and wide does Lettuce grow?

Lettuce typically reaches 1' tall with a spread of 1'. It has a fast growth rate and requires low maintenance. Plan your garden spacing accordingly to give it room to reach its full size.

Is Lettuce deer resistant?

Lettuce is not typically considered deer resistant. If deer are common in your area, consider protecting young plants with fencing or using deer repellent sprays during the growing season.

When does Lettuce bloom and is it edible?

Lettuce blooms in spring, fall, producing yellow (insignificant) flowers. Parts of this plant are edible and can be used in cooking or eaten fresh. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is native to Mediterranean.

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