27 Popular Types of Lettuce to Try This Season

Lettuce is a must-have in salads, sandwiches, and wraps. But let’s face it, sticking to the same old iceberg can get boring. You might want to try something new, but the many options at the grocery store can be confusing.

Don’t worry! I’ve got you covered with a guide to 27 popular types of lettuce. You’ll find options that are crunchy, tender, or somewhere in between. Some are perfect for salads, while others shine in cooked dishes.

In this post, I’ll walk you through different lettuce varieties, from classics like romaine to less common ones like frisée. You’ll learn about their flavors, textures, and best uses.

By the end, you’ll be ready to add variety to your meals and impress your friends with your lettuce knowledge.

List of Types of Lettuce Worth Exploring

1. Romaine Lettuce

Romaine lettuce is a popular and versatile lettuce known for its long, sturdy leaves, crisp texture, and slightly bitter taste. It is a key ingredient in Caesar salads.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. longifolia
Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins A, K, folate, and fiber.
Culinary Uses: Ideal for salads, wraps, and grilling.
Growing Tips: Prefers cool weather and well-drained soil.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer to keep it fresh for up to a week.
Fun Facts: Romaine lettuce was used as a medicinal plant in ancient Egypt.

2. Iceberg Lettuce

Iceberg lettuce is known for its round, compact head and crisp, pale green leaves. It has a mild flavor and is often used in burgers and sandwiches.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. capitata
Nutritional Value: Low in calories and a good source of water, fiber, and vitamin K.
Culinary Uses: Commonly used in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish.
Growing Tips: Thrives in cool climates and requires regular watering.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator wrapped in a paper towel to maintain crispness.
Fun Facts: Iceberg lettuce was named for its popularity in shipping from the West Coast, where it was packed in ice.

3. Butterhead Lettuce

Butterhead lettuce has soft, buttery leaves and a mild, sweet flavor. It’s a favorite for its tender texture and is often used in gourmet salads.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. capitata
Nutritional Value: Contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron.
Culinary Uses: Best used in salads and sandwiches or as a wrap for fillings.
Growing Tips: Prefers well-drained soil and partial shade in warmer climates.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator in a breathable bag to prevent wilting.
Fun Facts: Butterhead lettuce is also known as Bibb or Boston lettuce, named after the regions where it was first cultivated.

4. Green Leaf Lettuce

Green leaf lettuce is characterized by its loose, ruffled leaves and mild, slightly sweet taste. It is often used as a base for salads.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. crispa
Nutritional Value: High in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber and folate.
Culinary Uses: Ideal for salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish.
Growing Tips: Grows well in cool weather and requires consistent moisture.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator in a plastic bag to maintain freshness.
Fun Facts: Green leaf lettuce is often considered one of the most nutritious varieties of lettuce.

5. Red Leaf Lettuce

Red leaf lettuce has loose, tender leaves with a distinctive reddish-purple hue. It offers a slightly bitter taste and adds color to dishes.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. crispa
Nutritional Value: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, and fiber.
Culinary Uses: Perfect for salads, sandwiches, and as a colorful garnish.
Growing Tips: Prefers well-drained soil and partial shade in hot climates.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator wrapped in a paper towel to maintain crispness.
Fun Facts: The red pigment in red leaf lettuce is due to the presence of anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants.

6. Oak Leaf Lettuce

Oak leaf lettuce is named for its lobed leaves, which resemble oak leaves. It has a delicate, buttery flavor and is available in green and red varieties.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. crispa
Nutritional Value: High in vitamins A and K and antioxidants.
Culinary Uses: Used in salads, wraps, and garnish.
Growing Tips: Grows well in cool climates and requires regular watering.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator in a breathable bag to prevent wilting.
Fun Facts: The Greeks and Romans had historically grown oak leaf lettuce.

7. Lollo Rosso Lettuce

Lollo Rosso is a visually striking lettuce with frilly, curly leaves and a deep red color. It has a slightly bitter taste and a crunchy texture.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. crispa
Nutritional Value: Rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, and vitamins A and C.
Culinary Uses: Ideal for adding color and texture to salads and as a garnish.
Growing Tips: Prefers well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator wrapped in a paper towel to maintain freshness.
Fun Facts: Lollo Rosso is often used in gourmet dishes for its attractive appearance.

8. Little Gem Lettuce

Little Gem is a small, compact lettuce with crisp, sweet leaves. It is often described as a cross between Romaine and Butterhead lettuce.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. longifolia
Nutritional Value: High in vitamins A and K and a good source of fiber.
Culinary Uses: Perfect for salads, grilling, and as a base for appetizers.
Growing Tips: Grows well in cool climates and requires well-drained soil.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator in a plastic bag to keep it fresh.
Fun Facts: Little Gem lettuce is often referred to as a “baby Romaine” due to its similar taste and texture.

9. Cimarron Lettuce

Cimarron lettuce is a type of Romaine with deep red leaves and a crisp texture. Its robust flavor makes it a popular choice for salads.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. longifolia
Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K and fiber.
Culinary Uses: Best used in salads, wraps, and grilled dishes.
Growing Tips: Thrives in cool weather and well-drained soil.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator wrapped in a paper towel to maintain crispness.
Fun Facts: Cimarron lettuce adds a vibrant color to any salad due to its deep red leaves.

10. Escarole

Escarole is a broad-leaved type of endive with slightly curly, dark green leaves. It has a mildly bitter flavor and is often used in soups and salads.

Scientific Name:Cichorium endivia var. latifolium
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamins A and K, and folate.
Culinary Uses: Ideal for salads, soups, and sautéed dishes.
Growing Tips: Thrives in cool weather and requires well-drained soil.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator in a plastic bag to keep fresh for up to a week.
Fun Facts: Escarole is often used in Italian wedding soup, where its slightly bitter flavor pairs well with rich broth and meatballs.

11. Boston Lettuce

Boston lettuce is a type of Butterhead lettuce with large, soft leaves that form a loose head. It has a delicate, sweet flavor.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. capitata
Nutritional Value: High in vitamins A, K, and folate.
Culinary Uses: Perfect for salads, wraps, and as a base for elegant dishes.
Growing Tips: Grows well in cool climates and requires well-drained soil.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator in a breathable bag to keep it fresh.
Fun Facts: Boston lettuce is often used as a substitute for bread in low-carb wraps.

12. Bibb Lettuce

Bibb lettuce is another type of Butterhead lettuce with smaller, tender leaves. It has a slightly sweet flavor and a soft, buttery texture.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. capitata
Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins A, K, and iron.
Culinary Uses: Best used in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish.
Growing Tips: Prefers cool weather and well-drained soil.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator in a plastic bag to maintain freshness.
Fun Facts: Bibb lettuce was named after John Bibb, who developed this variety in the 19th century.

13. Radicchio

Radicchio is a type of chicory with deep red or purple leaves and white veins. Its slightly bitter and spicy flavor makes it a favorite in Italian cuisine.

Scientific Name:Cichorium intybus var. foliosum
Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins K and C, as well as antioxidants and fiber.
Culinary Uses: Commonly used in salads, grilled, or roasted as a side dish.
Growing Tips: Prefers cool weather and requires well-drained soil with regular watering.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in fall and winter.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator wrapped in a paper towel to maintain freshness.
Fun Facts: Radicchio has been cultivated since ancient Roman times and is a staple in Italian dishes such as risotto and pasta.

14. Great Lakes Lettuce

Great Lakes lettuce is a type of Iceberg lettuce that produces large, crisp heads. It has a mild, refreshing taste and is a favorite for salads and sandwiches.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. capitata
Nutritional Value: High in water content, fiber, and vitamin K.
Culinary Uses: Ideal for salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish.
Growing Tips: Requires cool weather and consistent moisture for the best growth.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Fun Facts: Great Lakes lettuce was developed in the 1940s and is known for its resistance to bolting.

15. Batavia Lettuce

Batavia lettuce is a type of crisphead lettuce with thick, crunchy leaves. It is similar to Iceberg lettuce but has a slightly sweeter flavor.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. capitata
Nutritional Value: Contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber.
Culinary Uses: Best used in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish.
Growing Tips: Thrives in cool weather and well-drained soil.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator wrapped in a paper towel to maintain crispness.
Fun Facts: Batavia lettuce is also known as French Crisp or Summer Crisp lettuce.

16. Nevada Lettuce

Nevada lettuce is a type of Batavian lettuce known for its heat tolerance and crisp, juicy leaves. It has a mild flavor and is perfect for summer salads.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. capitata
Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K and a good source of fiber.
Culinary Uses: Ideal for salads, sandwiches, and as a base for appetizers.
Growing Tips: Prefers well-drained soil and partial shade in hot climates.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in summer.
Storage Tips: Store it in a breathable bag in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
Fun Facts: Nevada lettuce is particularly popular in warm regions due to its resistance to heat.

17. Celtuce Lettuce

Celtuce, also known as stem lettuce, is grown for its thick, crunchy stem rather than its leaves. It has a mild, slightly nutty flavor.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. asparagina
Nutritional Value: High in fiber, vitamins A, C, and calcium.
Culinary Uses: Commonly used in stir-fries, soups, and salads.
Growing Tips: Thrives in cool weather and requires well-drained soil.
Availability: Available in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp cloth to maintain moisture.
Fun Facts: Celtuce is popular in Asian cuisine, particularly in China, where it is known as “wosun.”

18. Summer Crisp Lettuce

Summer Crisp lettuce, also known as French Crisp or Batavia, is a heat-tolerant variety with thick, crisp leaves. It has a sweet, mild flavor.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. capitata
Nutritional Value: Contains vitamins A, C, and K, and fiber.
Culinary Uses: Perfect for salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish.
Growing Tips: Grows well in warm weather and requires regular watering.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in summer.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator in a breathable bag to prevent wilting.
Fun Facts: Summer Crisp lettuce is resistant to bolting, making it ideal for growing in warmer climates.

19. Magenta Lettuce

Magenta lettuce is a type of Summer Crisp lettuce with vibrant, magenta-colored leaves. It has a sweet, mild flavor and a crisp texture.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. capitata
Nutritional Value: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, and fiber.
Culinary Uses: Ideal for adding color and texture to salads.
Growing Tips: Prefers well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in summer.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator wrapped in a paper towel to maintain freshness.
Fun Facts: Magenta lettuce is not only beautiful but also nutritious, thanks to its high antioxidant content.

20. Salad Bowl Lettuce

Salad Bowl lettuce is a loose-leaf lettuce variety with tender, curly leaves. It has a mild, sweet flavor and is often used as a base for salads.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. crispa
Nutritional Value: High in vitamins A, C, and K, and fiber.
Culinary Uses: Perfect for salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish.
Growing Tips: Thrives in cool weather and requires consistent moisture.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator in a plastic bag to maintain freshness.
Fun Facts: Salad Bowl lettuce won the All-America Selections award in 1952 for its excellent performance.

21. Prizehead Lettuce

Prizehead lettuce is a loose-leaf variety with ruffled, green leaves tinged with red. It has a mild, sweet flavor and is popular in home gardens.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. crispa
Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins A and C, and fiber.
Culinary Uses: Ideal for salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish.
Growing Tips: Grows well in cool climates and requires regular watering.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator wrapped in a paper towel to maintain crispness.
Fun Facts: Prizehead lettuce has been a favorite among gardeners since the 19th century due to its excellent taste and appearance.

22. Red Sails Lettuce

Red Sails lettuce is a loose-leaf variety with deep red, ruffled leaves. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and is known for its vibrant color.

Scientific Name:Lactuca sativa var. crispa
Nutritional Value: High in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and fiber.
Culinary Uses: Perfect for salads, sandwiches, and as a colorful garnish.
Growing Tips: Prefers well-drained soil and partial shade in hot climates.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator in a breathable bag to prevent wilting.
Fun Facts: Red Sails lettuce is often grown for its ornamental value as well as its flavor.

23. Mizuna Lettuce

Mizuna lettuce, also known as Japanese mustard greens, has feathery, deeply lobed leaves with a mild, peppery flavor. It’s a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine.

Scientific Name:Brassica rapa var. nipposinica
Nutritional Value: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and a good source of antioxidants.
Culinary Uses: Commonly used in salads, stir-fries, and soups.
Growing Tips: Thrives in cool weather and requires well-drained soil.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator in a plastic bag to keep fresh.
Fun Facts: Mizuna lettuce is a staple in Japanese cuisine and is often used in hot pots.

24. Mâche (Lamb’s Lettuce)

Mâche, also known as lamb’s lettuce, has small, rounded leaves with a delicate, nutty flavor. It’s a popular salad green in Europe.

Scientific Name:Valerianella locusta
Nutritional Value: High in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron.
Culinary Uses: Best used in salads, as a garnish, or in light sandwiches.
Growing Tips: Prefers cool weather and well-drained soil.
Availability: Available in fall and early spring.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator in a breathable bag to prevent wilting.
Fun Facts: Mâche was traditionally foraged from the wild before being cultivated as a salad green.

25. Frisée

Frisée is a type of chicory with curly, pale green leaves and a slightly bitter flavor. It is often used in salads to add texture and contrast.

Scientific Name:Cichorium endivia
Nutritional Value: Rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K.
Culinary Uses: Commonly used in salads, particularly in French cuisine, and as a garnish.
Growing Tips: Grows best in cool weather and requires well-drained soil.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp cloth to maintain crispness.
Fun Facts: Frisée is often used in the classic French salad, Salade Lyonnaise, which includes bacon and poached eggs.

26. Arugula

Arugula, also known as rocket, has tender, dark green leaves with a peppery flavor. It’s a popular salad green in Mediterranean cuisine.

Scientific Name:Eruca vesicaria
Nutritional Value: High in vitamins A, C, and K, and a good source of calcium and potassium.
Culinary Uses: Commonly used in salads, on pizzas, and as a garnish for meat dishes.
Growing Tips: Prefers cool weather and well-drained soil.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in spring and fall.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator in a plastic bag to maintain freshness.
Fun Facts: Arugula has been cultivated since Roman times and was considered an aphrodisiac.

27. Endive

Endive is a type of chicory with tightly packed, pale green leaves and a slightly bitter taste. It is often used in salads or as a vehicle for dips.

Scientific Name:Cichorium endivia
Nutritional Value: Rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K.
Culinary Uses: Best used in salads, as a garnish, or as a crunchy dipper for spreads.
Growing Tips: Thrives in cool weather and requires well-drained soil.
Availability: Available year-round, with peak season in fall and winter.
Storage Tips: Store in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp cloth to maintain crispness.
Fun Facts: Endive is also known as Belgian endive, and it was first cultivated in Belgium in the 19th century.

Conclusion

Now you know about 27 types of lettuce to try! Each one brings something special to your plate. From the crunch of romaine to the tenderness of butterhead, there’s a lettuce for every taste and dish.

Why does this matter? Because variety is key to a healthy diet. By mixing up your lettuce choices, you’re getting different nutrients and flavors. Plus, it makes eating salads more fun!

What’s next? I suggest you pick one new lettuce type each week to try. Start with butter lettuce in your next sandwich or toss some arugula into your pasta. You might find a new favorite!

Remember, fresh is best. So, next time you’re at the store or farmers market, grab a new lettuce variety and give it a go.

Happy eating!

27 Popular Types of Lettuce to Try This Season