Green leaf lettuce is one of hundreds of members of the Lactuca genus and the Asteraceae family. Lettuce is categorized into six different types, also known as subspecies or botanical varieties. The six types of lettuce are Crisphead (Iceberg and Batavian), Romaine, Butter, Latin, leaf and Stem. All lettuce types except for Iceberg occur in red and green leaf form. Of all lettuce types, leaf lettuces are the most commonly planted lettuces in the world. They are favored for their cut-and-come again nature, their easy ability to grow and for the variety of leaf lettuces available.

Green leaf lettuce is the general name provided for dozens of varieties that produce semi-frilled loose leaf lettuces with colors varying from lime green to sea green in the outer leaves to pea green and cream colored inner leaves. The texture is consistently crispy and succulent and the flavor generally mild and insipid with a slightly bitter undertone. Bitterness generally occurs in maturing greens versus young greens.

Serving Ideas

Green leaf lettuces should be a versatile staple green in any home crisper, adding depth and variety to not just salads and sandwiches but also to summer rolls, cooked soups, slow braised meats and grilled fish. They are best eaten in spring and summer and paired with seasonal and regional ingredients. Think of the season as a wellspring of inspiration to add complementary ingredients to green leaf lettuces. Choice ingredients are those that refresh the palate and provide contrast in texture, flavor and temperature. Green leaf lettuces require little fuss beyond that to shine and they can be dressed simply or tossed in a bowl with light and medium-bodied dressings.

Geography/History

Leaf lettuces were first described in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus in the second volume of his Species Plantarum. Green leaf lettuce saw its evolutionary roots in Europe where leaf lettuces were favored by seasoned gardeners. Green leaf varieties would be cultivated, further developed and eventually flourished heavily in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Green leaf lettuces are a cool season crop, preferring warm full sun days and cool nights. They can tolerate several soil types from clay to sandy to rich, organic soil.

Seasons/Availability

Green leaf lettuce is available year round.