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Origin
Native to the Mediterranean where it has been cultivated for several millennia. It probably spread into Europe during the Roman occupation. Varieties include Butterheads - which are soft leaved, Iceberg- is firm headed with thick crunchy leaves, Romaine- long stiff leaves with prominent mid-ribs, Leaf - curly heads that sometimes have reddish leaves.
Growing Conditions Required
It is best grown in warm temperatures. It is grown in the USA, Europe and Australia.
Handling Requirements
Store Lettuce at 0ºC - 1ºC as storage life decreases markedly at higher temperatures.
Irish Season
Round lettuce and Curley Lettuce is grown in Ireland 52 weeks of the year under glass. Iceberg lettuce, Cos Romaine and Chinese leaves are grown outdoors and are ready for harvesting from mid May to mid October. Cos Romaine and Chinese leaves are also grown under glass to extend the harvesting season to include April and early May.
Eating Experience
Lettuce is unique among the major vegetables in that it is used almost exclusively as a fresh raw product
The Healthy Option
Lettuce is exceptionally low in calories and contains 90% water. Dark lettuce varieties are rich in folate, beta-carotene, Vitamin C and potassium.
Interesting Fact
The ancient Greeks believed that lettuce induced sleep, so they served it at the end of the meal. The Romans continued the custom. However, the dictatorial Emperor Domitian (81-96 AD) served it at the beginning of his feasts, so he could torture his guests by forcing them to stay awake in the presence of the Emperor.
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