Distinctive Leaf Structure
Develops large, elongated leaves with toothed or deeply lobed edges and a noticeable central midrib.
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Wild Lettuce, botanically known as Lactuca virosa, is a biennial flowering plant recognized for its large basal leaves, upright branching stems, and clusters of small yellow flowers. Also called Great Lettuce or Bitter Lettuce, this plant develops leafy growth during its first year before producing flowering stems in its second year. It can add natural interest to wildflower gardens, open planting areas, and naturalized landscapes.
Develops large, elongated leaves with toothed or deeply lobed edges and a noticeable central midrib.
Produces clusters of small yellow flower heads along branching stems during the flowering season.
Forms a leafy rosette during the first growing year and typically develops flowering stems during the second year.
Develops a tall central stem with branching growth, adding vertical interest to suitable open garden areas.
| Scientific Name | Lactuca virosa |
| Common Name | Wild Lettuce; Great Lettuce; Bitter Lettuce |
| Plant Family | Asteraceae |
| Seed Type | Wildflower / Ornamental Plant Seeds |
| Plant Type | Biennial Herbaceous Plant |
| Growth Habit | Upright, branching growth with a basal leaf rosette |
| Flower Color | Yellow |
| Flower Type | Small composite flower heads |
| Flowering Season | Summer to early fall, depending on climate |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Approximately 5–9; varies with local conditions |
| Planting Season | Spring or fall |
| Sowing Season | Spring or autumn |
| Sowing Method | Direct sowing or starting in a suitable seed tray |
| Seed Covering | Cover very lightly with soil |
| Germination Time | Generally fairly quick under suitable conditions; timing varies |
| Germination Temperature | Follow supplier-specific temperature recommendations |
| Sunlight Requirements | Full sun |
| Soil Requirements | Light sandy or loamy, well-drained soil |
| Watering | Maintain suitable moisture during germination and early growth |
| Mature Plant Height | Approximately 1.2–2 meters, depending on growing conditions |
| Plant Spacing | Allow sufficient room for mature upright growth |
| Garden Uses | Wildflower Gardens, Naturalized Plantings, and Open Garden Areas |
Wild Lettuce Seeds offer an opportunity to grow Lactuca virosa, a distinctive biennial plant with large green leaves, upright branching stems, and small yellow flowers. Its natural growth habit makes it suitable for selected open garden spaces and naturalized planting areas. Provide adequate sunlight, well-drained soil, and sufficient room for mature growth.
Find helpful answers about Wild Lettuce seed germination, flowering, and biennial growth.
Wild Lettuce seeds generally germinate fairly quickly when planted in suitable conditions, although the exact time depends on seed freshness, temperature, and moisture. The plant usually develops a leafy rosette during its first growing year before producing a tall flowering stem in its second year.
Yes. Wild Lettuce is generally classified as an annual or biennial plant, with biennial growth being common. During the first year, it develops a basal rosette of leaves. In the following year, it typically produces an upright flowering stem with small yellow flower heads and eventually develops seeds.
Wild Lettuce produces numerous small, yellow, dandelion-like flower heads arranged in branching clusters near the upper part of its flowering stems. Flowering generally occurs during summer and can continue into early fall, depending on the climate and growing conditions.