Lactuca canadensis aka Canada Lettuce
Taxonomy
Lactuca canadensis, also known as Canada lettuce, Canada wild lettuce, and tall lettuce, is a biennial herb in the daisy family. Its native range is not entirely clear, but it is considered a native of the eastern and central parts of North America, naturalizing in the western part of the continent and Eurasia. This plant can grow up to 50-200 cm (19.5-78.5 in) or more from a taproot. The leaves are deeply lobed and occasionally toothed, while the inflorescence at the top of the stem bears many flower heads, each up to 1 cm (0.5 in) wide when open. The flower heads have many pale yellow ray florets but no disc florets, and the fruit is a dark-colored achene about half a centimeter (0.2 inches) long with a white pappus. As a houseplant, Canada lettuce needs regular watering and does best in long-lasting, direct light less than 1 foot from a window. It prefers soil that is well-draining, and a gentle, organic fertilizer can be used throughout the peak growing season.
Common names
Canada Lettuce, Canada Wild Lettuce, Tall LettuceHow to care for Canada Lettuce
Difficulty
Canada Lettuce presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
Water
Canada Lettuce should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Canada Lettuce loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Canada Lettuce prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.
Humidity
No extra humidity is necessary for the Canada Lettuce. Absorption of water by plants is primarily done through their roots, and soil watering is the most effective method to provide humidity to your plants.
Growth-pattern
Canada Lettuce grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.
Region of origin
Canada Lettuce’s native range is Worldwide.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Lactuca Genus
Lactuca sibirica
Lactuca Blue Sow Thistle
Lactuca raddeana
Lactuca ludoviciana Biannual Lettuce
Lactuca sativa Lettuce
Lactuca canadensis Canada Lettuce
Lactuca indica Indian Lettuce
Lactuca plumieri Hairless Blue Sow Thistle
Lactuca viminea Pliant Lettuce
