Lactuca serriola
TAXONOMY
FamilyAsteraceae
GenusLactuca
Zone4
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Lactuca serriola, commonly known as prickly lettuce, is a member of the Asteraceae family and the Lactuca genus. It is an annual or biennial plant that thrives in temperate climates. Native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, it has spread to many other regions. The plant is known for its spiny leaves and milky sap.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Milk Thistle
Prickly Lettuce
Wiestia Spectabilis
Wild Lettuce
Hieracium lactuca
Lactuca albicaulis
Lactuca altaica
Lactuca angustifolia
Lactuca augustana
Lactuca auriculata
Lactuca bracteata
Lactuca coriacea
Lactuca dubia
Lactuca elata
Lactuca integrata
Lactuca latifolia
Lactuca officinarum
Lactuca plicata
Lactuca pseudovirosa
Lactuca saligna var. robusta
Lactuca scariola
Lactuca scariola f. scariola
Lactuca scariola subsp. augustana
Lactuca scariola subsp. integrata
Lactuca scariola subsp. scariola
Lactuca scariola var. integrata
Lactuca scariola var. integrifolia
Lactuca scariola var. scariola
Lactuca serriola f. integrifolia
Lactuca serriola f. serriola
Lactuca serriola subsp. integrifolia
Lactuca serriola subsp. serriola
Lactuca serriola var. serriola
Lactuca sylvestris
Lactuca tephrocarpa
Lactuca verticalis
Lactuca virosa
Lactuca virosa var. integrifolia
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
GDD1,050
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Prickly lettuce prefers full sun and moderate temperatures. It should be watered regularly but allowed to dry out partially between waterings. The plant thrives in moderate humidity and can tolerate a range of temperatures, making it relatively easy to care for.Harvest
Lactuca serriola, commonly known as prickly lettuce, is typically ready for harvest about 70 days after planting. The best time to harvest is in the early morning when the leaves are crisp and full of moisture. To harvest, cut the outer leaves from the base of the plant, leaving the inner leaves to continue growing. Ensure that you handle the plant gently to avoid damaging the leaves. It is important to harvest before the plant bolts, as the leaves can become bitter once it starts to flower.Soil
Lactuca serriola prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Ensure the soil is not waterlogged to prevent root rot. A good garden soil mix with organic matter will support its growth.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for prickly lettuce as it is an annual or biennial plant. However, if grown in containers, ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate its root system and repot if the plant becomes root-bound.Propagation
Lactuca serriola can be propagated by seeds. Sow the seeds directly in the garden or in containers in early spring. Ensure the soil is moist until germination occurs, which typically takes 7-14 days.Pruning
Pruning is not required for prickly lettuce. However, you can remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and health.Toxicity
Lactuca serriola is not toxic to pets or humans. However, its milky sap can cause mild skin irritation in some individuals, so it is advisable to handle the plant with care.Additional
Prickly lettuce is often considered a weed in many regions due to its rapid growth and ability to spread. It can be used as a leafy green in salads, although it has a slightly bitter taste.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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