Creeping lettuce
Ixeris stolonifera
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Pl. 665C — Ixeris stolonifera
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IOverview
Overview
Creeping lettuce, scientifically known as Ixeris stolonifera, is a perennial herb native to Japan, Korea, Nansei-shoto, and Ogasawara-shoto, Taiwan. This plant thrives in moist conditions with partial sun or shade and can be found growing in light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. Reaching a height of only 0.2 meters, it is known for its edible leaves and roots, making it a valuable addition to gardens where it can spread through stolons. Its ability to grow in various soil types and its ornamental appeal make creeping lettuce a versatile plant in both culinary and landscape settings.
Quick answers
What is Creeping lettuce?
Creeping lettuce, scientifically known as Ixeris stolonifera, is a perennial herb native to Japan, Korea, Nansei-shoto, and Ogasawara-shoto, Taiwan. This plant thrives in moist conditions with partial sun or shade and can be found growing in light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Creeping lettuce thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is a perennial that grows up to 0.2 meters tall and can be propagated through seeds or division. This plant is hardy in temperate regions and is native to Japan, Korea, Nansei-shoto, Ogasawara-shoto, and Taiwan. Its edible parts include the leaves and roots.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Creeping lettuce for the first time
8steps
Start with basic care for creeping lettuce, focusing on sunlight and watering.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, a container or garden bed, potting soil if using a container.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in the garden bed or start them indoors and transplant when they are about 2-3 cm tall.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist, providing full to partial sun exposure. Water daily until plants establish roots.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide 6-8 hours of sunlight per day.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune by cutting back stems to encourage new growth and maintain a compact shape.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, neglecting regular pruning, using poor drainage soil, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: The leaves and roots of creeping lettuce are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. Roots are typically dug up and used in soups or stews, providing a mild flavor to dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 4 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 4 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native· 4 introduced
Asia3 regions
native (3)JapanSouth KoreaTaiwan
Broader regions
native:Nansei-shoto, Ogasawara-shoto
introduced:New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 665c0233-e8a2-4a43-8697-5f89275b1b2c
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