Lactuca virosa WILD LETTUCE (plant)

Wild Lettuce, also known as Lactuca virosa or Opium Lettuce, is a hardy plant variety that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. It is native to Europe and is easily cultivated.

Its leaves are large, intense green, lobed, and deeply cut, giving them a characteristic appearance. They form a basal rosette that rises along the stems, creating dense foliage. The main vein of the leaf features a row of small prickles.

The stems are slender and erect, often reaching up to 1.2 meters in height, and contain a sticky white latex. They are robust and may show a greenish coloration. The stems branch out at the top, and their structure allows the plant to stand out in the landscape.

Flowering takes place primarily during the summer season. The flowers, bright yellow in color, are grouped in flower heads (capitula) that bloom in clusters at the top of the stems.

- Uses:

This variety is among the most illustrious sedatives, analgesics, and antispasmodics known since Antiquity.

In the past, it was considered a magical plant associated with black magic.

Its latex, collected by incision, possesses hypnotic and soothing properties.

It was long suspected of being an ingredient in "witches' ointments."

Its sap is a white liquid containing lactucarium, a relaxing substance similar in appearance to that of the Papaveraceae family.

- Harvest:

The leaves can be harvested when the plant reaches a sufficient size, generally after a few months.

- Culture and Planting:

• Bury the roots of wild lettuce in a 3-liter pot.
• Use a high-quality horticultural potting soil during planting.
• Tamp down firmly at the base of the plant.
• Water gently around the collar (base of the stem).

- Substrate:

Lactuca virosa grows well in a light, well-drained substrate. A mixture of garden soil and compost is perfectly suitable.

- Sunlight:

This plant prefers a very sunny exposure. Direct sunlight will promote vigorous growth and abundant flowering.

- Hardiness:

Its hardiness is good; it grows very quickly in temperatures between 15°C and 25°C.

- Water Needs:

Its water requirements are significant. Regular watering is recommended, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil slightly moist. Mulching during the summer period is recommended.

- Pests:

Lactuca virosa can be attacked by various pests, notably aphids, which feed on the sap and weaken the plant. Slugs and snails can also cause damage by devouring the leaves.