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Lactuca debilis

Lactuca debilisfam. Asteraceae
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Lactuca debilis (Lactuca debilis) — botanical photograph
Pl. FB2C — Lactuca debilis
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I

Overview

Lactuca debilis, a member of the Asteraceae family, is a perennial plant native to regions including China Southeast, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Nansei-shoto, Ogasawara-shoto, Taiwan, and Vietnam. This plant thrives in light or partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light or medium in texture. Known for its edible leaves, Lactuca debilis has been used for centuries, offering a mild and refreshing addition to salads. The leaves can be consumed raw or cooked, making it a versatile ingredient in various dishes. In traditional medicine, Lactuca debilis is valued for its potential health benefits, though its specific uses and compounds are not extensively documented. This plant is adaptable and resilient, capable of growing in a variety of environmental conditions, making it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes in temperate regions. Its ability to thrive in both full sun and partial shade, along with its preference for moist soil, makes it a suitable choice for gardeners looking for a hardy and versatile plant.

Quick answers

What is Lactuca debilis?

Lactuca debilis, a member of the Asteraceae family, is a perennial plant native to regions including China Southeast, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Nansei-shoto, Ogasawara-shoto, Taiwan, and Vietnam. This plant thrives in light or partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light or medium in texture.

Compare with:Achyranthes faureri→Blue Lettuce→Carpesium divaricatum→all comparisons →
IV·b

Mixology suggestions

2 drafts
Editorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Evening Calm
sleep
tea
Traditional bedtime infusion.
Stress Relief
stress
tincture
Used traditionally for calming effects.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Lactuca debilis thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light or medium in texture. It is a perennial that produces edible leaves and is hardy in temperate regions. Propagate through seed sowing directly into the garden bed or by dividing established plants. Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season for best results.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Perennial
For first-time growers

How to grow Lactuca debilis for the first time

8steps

Start with Lactuca debilis as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or small plants, a trowel, and a watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a location with light to partial sun. Ensure soil is well-draining, sandy to medium texture.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, spacing them about 6 inches apart. Transplant young plants if needed, keeping the same distance.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune leaves as needed to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's health.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting regular pruning.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Lactuca debilis are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often used in salads for their mild flavor. The plant grows well in moist, light soil and thrives in both full sun and partial shade.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 8 native
Asia5 regions
native (5)ChinaJapanSouth KoreaTaiwanVietnam
Broader regions
native:Nansei-shoto, Ogasawara-shoto
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Lactuca debilis (Lactuca debilis) — botanical photograph
Lactuca debilis (Lactuca debilis)
X

See also

8 related
XI

Explore further

XII

About this entry

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