Lactuca virosa, commonly known as wild lettuce or opium lettuce, is a biennial herb native to central and southern Europe, coastal Great Britain, and North Africa. It has also naturalized in parts of Australia and North America. This plant typically grows up to 79 inches tall and is characterized by its purple-flushed stems and leaves, with small, dandelion-like white flowers that bloom from July to September. The flowers are followed by purple-black achenes. In its native habitat, Lactuca virosa is often found in disturbed areas, along roadsides, and in open woodlands.

Wild lettuce is known for its historical use as a sedative and its mild analgesic properties due to the presence of lactucopicrin and lactucin. It is not commonly cultivated but is of interest for its medicinal properties. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade, well-drained soil, and moderate water. While it is legal to grow and own in the U.S., it is potentially invasive in some regions. Gardeners should be cautious and check local regulations before planting. It can become a weed in some settings, and its sap may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.CC BY-SA 4.0