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. Butterhead lettuces are known for their compact heads, their leaf texture and their mellow flavor. There are several red oak lettuce varieties, varying in shape, frill, color and flavor. Some variety names include Cobham, Oscarde, Danyelle, Paradai, red Coral and Vulcan.

As its name suggests, red oak leaf lettuce has the appearance of aging ruby oak leaves - elongated, lobed and loosely serrated. The vibrant burgundy stained leaves form a semi-tight rosette, growing upward and outward. Red oak leaf lettuce has a buttery texture and an incredibly mellow, nutty and sweet flavor. It is known for its sweetness, which may be an even more memorable quality than its attractive foliage.

Serving Ideas

Lettuces are a quintessential staple to have on rotation in the crisper. Red oak leaf lettuce offers variety and is especially favored in spring and summer recipes. It is a great salad mix green, offering pleasing color and texture for both visual and mouth appeal. The leaves need very little to no manipulation to showcase their best attributes, buttery texture and sweet flavor. Complimentary pairings include light bodied and citrus forward dressings, fresh and aged cheeses, apples, berries, stone fruit and persimmons, herbs including basil, mint and tarragon, garlic, shallots, nuts, dried fruit and other salad greens of varying textures and flavor such as Frisee, Arugula, Mizuna and Romaine.

Geography/History

Oak leaf lettuces was first cultivated in France from what was originally considered a weed found growing wild. There is the very early reference to red oak leaf lettuce by Evelyn in Acetaria (1699) that may indicate oak leaf lettuces had arrived in England prior to the 18th Century. Red oak leaf lettuce was introduced commercially under the name “Feuille de Chene” in 1771 by the French seed company Vilmorin.

Seasons/Availability

Baby red oak lettuce is available year round.