Corn Salad (Valerianella locusta)

Corn Salad

Valerianella locusta

Tender, nutrient-dense leaves make it a beloved winter green. Cool-season edible herb; common names: lamb's lettuce, mâche.

Partial sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Partial sun to light shade; tolerates full sun in cool climates, avoid intense summer heat
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid drying out completely
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Temperature Thrives in cool temperatures; tolerates light frost, avoid heat above 25°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal rosette of soft, spoon-shaped, pale green leaves with smooth margins
  • Flower: Tiny, white, star-shaped blooms in loose clusters on thin stems
  • Stem: Slender, branching, upright stems bearing flower clusters
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist; water deeply when top 2 cm dry

Fertilization

Light feed every 2 weeks. Use balanced, diluted organic fertilizer to support leaf growth

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells to fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels without burning roots
Pruning
  • Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage new, tender growth
  • Remove flowering stems promptly to prolong leaf production
  • Trim yellowed or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and airflow
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: Non-toxic; edible as a leafy green vegetable

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Edible leafy green in fresh salads, garnishes, or lightly sautéed dishes