Water
Water regularly to maintain consistently moist soil, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering slightly in cooler weather or when the plant is dormant.
Also known as False Lettuce · Florida Blue Lettuce · Florida Lettuce
Woodland lettuce (Lactuca floridana) is a native annual to perennial herb found in woodlands and fields, offering delicate foliage and small flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial to full sun
75% intensity
Thrives in locations receiving 4-6 hours of sunlight daily, but can tolerate more.
Keep soil consistently moist
50% intensity
Prefers regular watering; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Loam
50% intensity
Cool to moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cooler temperatures, ideal for spring and fall growth. Can bolt in extreme heat.
Low feeding requirement
25% intensity
Does not require frequent feeding; benefit from light fertilization if soil is poor.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to maintain consistently moist soil, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot. Reduce watering slightly in cooler weather or when the plant is dormant.
Pruning is typically not necessary for Lactuca floridana unless you are harvesting leaves. Remove any yellowing or dead foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Pinching back the growing tips can encourage bushier growth.
Lactuca floridana is easily propagated by seed. Sow seeds directly into the garden in early spring or late fall, or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost.
Seeds germinate readily in moist, well-draining soil.
Repotting is generally not a concern for this plant as it is an annual or biennial often grown from seed and allowed to naturalize. If cultivating in containers and a plant becomes root-bound, repot into a slightly larger container in spring.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Woodland Lettuce (Lactuca floridana)
Where Woodland Lettuce (Lactuca floridana) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Lactuca |
| Species | Lactuca floridana |
Similar in genus Lactuca
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data