Brighten your bowl with a splash of red!
Red Leaf Lettuce is a loose-leaf beauty with frilly, red-tinted leaves and a crisp, sweet bite. It’s fast-growing, easy to harvest, and perfect for gardeners who love fresh greens with a little flair.
Variety: Red Leaf Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)
Growth Habit: Cool-season annual
Height: 8–12 inches
Flavor Profile: Mild, crisp, and sweet
Color: Green base with red-tipped, ruffled leaves
Planting Conditions: Direct sow or transplant in full sun
Harvest Timeline: Ready in 40–50 days
Uses: Great for baby greens, salad mixes, and sandwiches
Fun Fact: The red color comes from anthocyanins, natural antioxidants that add both beauty and nutrition to your plate.
Red Leaf Lettuce is a favorite for fresh, colorful salads. Its tender, frilly leaves add texture and a pop of color to any dish, and its mild flavor pairs well with everything from vinaigrettes to creamy dressings. Whether you’re harvesting baby leaves or letting it grow to full size, this lettuce brings both beauty and bounty to your garden.
To Full Size or Baby Greens
🌞 Choose a Sunny Spot: Full sun with well-drained soil helps bring out the red tones.
🌱 Sow the Seeds: Plant ¼ inch deep, spacing 4–6 inches apart.
💧 Water Consistently: Keep soil moist for tender, flavorful leaves.
🌿 Thin and Maintain: Thin to 6–8 inches apart for full heads or harvest young leaves often.
✂️ Harvest: Snip outer leaves for continuous harvest or cut the whole plant when full and vibrant.
