Lactuca debilis
Lactuca debilisfam. Asteraceae
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Pl. FB2C — Lactuca debilis
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IOverview
Overview
Lactuca debilis, a member of the Asteraceae family and native to regions including China Southeast, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Nansei-shoto, Ogasawara-shoto, Taiwan, and Vietnam, is both edible and medicinal. This perennial plant thrives in light or partial sun, prefers moist conditions, and grows well in light (sandy) and medium soils. Known for its edible leaves, Lactuca debilis has been used for centuries, offering a mild and refreshing addition to salads. Its versatility extends to traditional medicine where it is valued for its potential health benefits. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to grow in various environmental conditions, making it adaptable and resilient.
Quick answers
What is Lactuca debilis?
Lactuca debilis, a member of the Asteraceae family and native to regions including China Southeast, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, Nansei-shoto, Ogasawara-shoto, Taiwan, and Vietnam, is both edible and medicinal.
IV·bMixology suggestions
2 drafts
Mixology suggestions
2 draftsEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Stress Relief
stresstincture
Used traditionally for calming effects.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
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
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with light to partial sun. Ensure soil is well-draining, sandy to medium texture.
- 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
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune leaves as needed to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
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
VIIDistribution
8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 8 native
Asia5 regions
native (5)ChinaJapanSouth KoreaTaiwanVietnam
Broader regions
native:Nansei-shoto, Ogasawara-shoto
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Asteraceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Asteraceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
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