PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Partial sun to full sun; tolerate light shade in hot climates to prevent bolting
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid drying out completely to maintain leaf tenderness
Temperature
Thrives in cool temperatures; bolt quickly when exposed to sustained heat above 25°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Rosette of smooth or ruffled leaves; color ranges from pale green to deep red
- Flower: Small yellow composite blooms on tall bolting stems
- Stem: Short, compact rosette stem; elongates when bolting to produce seeds
Care Guide
Watering
Water deeply 2–3 times weekly; avoid wetting leaves to prevent fungal disease
Fertilization
Light diluted feed once monthly. Use balanced organic fertilizer to support leaf growth without promoting excessive bolting
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to add calcium and deter slugsPruning
- Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage continuous new growth from the rosette center
- Cut back bolting stems promptly to redirect energy to leaf production
- Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and airflow
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no adverse effects reported
Humans: No known toxic effects; widely consumed as edible vegetable
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Edible leafy vegetable for salads, sandwiches, and cooked dishes
