Canada Lettuce

(Lactuca canadensis)

Canada Lettuce (Lactuca canadensis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Lactuca canadensis, commonly known as Canada Lettuce, is a semi-deciduous biennial herb native to open woodlands, forest edges, and disturbed areas throughout the Eastern USA and adjacent regions of Canada. It can grow from a taproot to heights of 50–200 cm (19.5–78.5 in) or more. The leaves of Canada Lettuce are deeply lobed and occasionally toothed, and the plant has a tall, erect stem. The inflorescence at the top of the stem consists of many small flower heads, each with pale yellow ray florets and no disc florets, blooming from early to mid-summer. The fruit is a dark-colored achene about half a centimeter (0.2 inches) long with a white pappus that aids in wind dispersal.

Canada Lettuce is not commonly cultivated for ornamental purposes but is of interest for native plant gardens and restoration projects due to its adaptability to various soil types and conditions. It thrives in moist to slightly dry conditions and prefers full to partial sun exposure. Loamy soil is ideal for its growth, but it can also tolerate clay-loam and gravelly soils. While it can resemble a weed in certain settings, it is a valuable plant for pollinators and wildlife. Gardeners should be aware that Lactuca canadensis can become potentially invasive outside its native range and should check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 4-8 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

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 open woodlands, forest edges, and disturbed areas

Other Names

Common Names: Florida Blue Lettuce , Canada Wild Lettuce , Tall Lettuce , Wild Lettuce , Arrow-Leaved Lettuce , Devil’s Weed , Tall Wild Lettuce , Laitue Du Canada , Florida Blue Lettuce

Scientific Names: Lactuca canadensis , Lactuca villosa , Lactuca canadensis var. latifolia , Lactuca canadensis var. longifolia , Lactuca elongata , Lactuca canadensis var. obovata , Lactuca sagittifolia , Lactuca canadensis var. typica , Lactuca canadensis f. exauriculata , Lactuca canadensis f. villicaulis

GBIF Accepted Name: Lactuca canadensis L.