Lactuca inermis is a species of wild lettuce native to sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar, and the Arabian peninsula.[2] A pioneer species often found in disturbed areas, it is of variable height, from very short (5 cm) to quite tall (240 cm) and woody. Local people consume its young leaves, perhaps with a light boiling, as a salad green or vegetable.[3]

Varieties

Two varieties are currently accepted:[2]

  • Lactuca inermis var. inermis
  • Lactuca inermis var. myriocephala (Dethier) Lawalrée

References

  1. ^ Fl. Aegypt.-Arab.: 144 (1775)
  2. ^ a b c "Lactuca inermis Forssk". Plants of the World Online. Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. 2017. Retrieved 12 September 2020.
  3. ^ Grubben, G. J. H. (2004). Vegetables. p. 348. ISBN 9789057821479.