Creeping Lettuce

(Ixeris stolonifera)

Creeping Lettuce (Ixeris stolonifera)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Ixeris stolonifera image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Ixeris stolonifera, commonly known as Creeping Lettuce, is a low-growing, stoloniferous perennial herb native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. It is typically found in a variety of habitats such as open mountain slopes, rocky areas with shallow soil, and disturbed areas like cultivated fields and roadsides. This plant is adapted to a range of ecological conditions from full sun to partial shade and is often found in grasslands and along forest margins. It typically reaches a height of 10-30 cm and spreads via stolons, forming a ground cover. The Creeping Lettuce produces yellow composite flower heads in spring, which are small but can be quite showy when in mass bloom.

In cultivation, Ixeris stolonifera is valued for its ability to cover ground quickly, its tolerance of poor soils, and its bright yellow flowers that add a splash of color in the spring. It is used in rock gardens, as a ground cover, and for erosion control on slopes. It prefers well-drained soils, can tolerate drought once established, and requires minimal maintenance. While not commonly found in nurseries, it can be propagated by division or from seed. Gardeners should be aware that in some areas, it can become invasive and may require management to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Border Plant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to grasslands, open mountain slopes, rocky areas with shallow soil, forest margins, and disturbed areas in East Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Creeping lettuces

Scientific Names: , Ixeris stolonifera, Ixeris capillaris, Ixeris stolonifera f. capillaris, Ixeris stolonifera f. sinuata, Ixeris stolonifera f. stolonifera, Ixeris stolonifera subsp. capillaris, Ixeris stolonifera subsp. stolonifera, Ixeris stolonifera var. capillaris, Ixeris stolonifera var. sinuata

GBIF Accepted Name: