Claytonia parviflora, commonly known as Indian lettuce, is an annual herb that thrives in the moist, open woodlands and meadows of western North America, ranging from southwestern Canada through the western United States to northwestern Mexico. It is particularly associated with vernal pools and other seasonally wet habitats that dry up later in the year. This plant typically reaches up to 12 inches in height and features a basal rosette of linear leaves, with some varieties bearing lance-shaped foliage. The inflorescence consists of a loose cluster of up to 40 small flowers, which are white to pink-tinted and can be quite showy in mass. The subspecies Claytonia parviflora subsp. grandiflora, which is endemic to the western Sierra Nevada foothills, boasts the largest flowers, reaching up to 0.5 inches in diameter.

Indian lettuce is valued for its delicate appearance and early spring blooms, which can add a splash of color to native plant gardens, wildflower meadows, and informal borders. It is also used in restoration projects, particularly in its native range. In cultivation, it prefers partial shade to full sun, consistent moisture, especially during its growing season, and well-draining soils. While generally easy to grow, it can be susceptible to root rot in overly wet conditions. Indian lettuce has edible leaves and is sometimes grown in vegetable gardens for its mild, spinach-like flavor. However, it is not commonly found in commercial cultivation and is more often appreciated for its ecological role in supporting native pollinators.CC BY-SA 4.0