Broadleaf Lettuce

lactuca macrophylla

Also known as: ["Broadleaf Lettuce","Wild Lettuce"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Lactuca Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A wild species of lettuce native to North America, known for its large leaves and milky sap.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Lactuca
Botanical Name: Lactuca macrophylla

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: garden bed with partial shade or container in a sheltered outdoor spot
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on shaping and removing weak stems.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to partial shade in intense summer sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light, protect from direct midday sun, place in east-facing windows indoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct afternoon sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of peat, perlite, and loam; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots drain well.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme heat or cold.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from vents; maintain moderate humidity.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in soil or water.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid, and bright indirect light with good air circulation.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form and better air circulation.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools, prune dead/weak growth, make clean cuts, dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Prepare new pot, trim roots if crowded, use fresh soil mix, water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains from the bottom, ensure excess water exits the pot, water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, or yellowing leaves.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid drafty areas, use a heat mat if necessary.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, use cooling fans if indoors.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with roots.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Lactuca macrophylla may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as aphids or spider mites, which disrupt chlorophyll production.

Wilting in Lactuca macrophylla can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to impaired nutrient uptake and potential root damage.

Leaf spots on Lactuca macrophylla may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Lactuca macrophylla is often associated with excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Lactuca macrophylla is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with this plant species when ingested by cats.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Monitor your cat if they consume unfamiliar plants, but Lactuca macrophylla is not expected to cause harm.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Lactuca macrophylla is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with this plant species when ingested by dogs.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Monitor your dog if they consume unfamiliar plants, but Lactuca macrophylla is not expected to cause harm.
Humans
Non-toxic

Lactuca macrophylla is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is a species of wild lettuce and is generally safe for consumption.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

While generally non-toxic, it is advisable to consume wild plants in moderation and ensure proper identification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Lactuca macrophylla edible?

A: While related to cultivated lettuce, Lactuca macrophylla is generally considered mildly toxic and not recommended for consumption.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowering nature.

Q: How should I care for Lactuca macrophylla?

A: It thrives in moderate conditions with average watering and partial sunlight.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: easy
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Cape weed
View
Dandelion
View
Yacon
View
Western Coneflower
View