
Botanical Name: Lactuca Quercina
Origin: Europe
English Name: Wild Lettuce Herb C/S
French Name: Laitue Sauvage Coupée
Also Known As: Prickly Lettuce
Part Used: Aerial parts (leaves, stems, and flowering tops) of Lactuca quercina
Description: Wild Lettuce Herb C/S is prepared from the aerial parts of Lactuca quercina, a tall biennial plant native to Europe and western Asia and naturalized in many temperate regions worldwide. The plant typically grows between 1 and 2 metres tall, producing upright hollow stems and large elongated green leaves with slightly serrated edges and a central midrib. During summer, small pale-yellow flowers appear in loose clusters near the tops of the stems. Harvesting is carried out when the plant is fully developed, ensuring consistent colour, texture, and botanical quality.
After harvesting, the herb is carefully cleaned to remove soil and natural debris. Drying is performed using controlled air or low-temperature methods to preserve the natural green colour and fibrous structure of the plant material. Once dried, the herb is cut and sifted into uniform fragments, producing lightweight, free-flowing pieces with visible leaf sections, stem parts, and occasional flower fragments. This process maintains the botanical integrity of Lactuca quercina while creating a consistent cut suitable for blending and infusion.
The finished Wild Lettuce Herb C/S displays a soft green to light brown colour with mixed leaf and stem pieces and a crisp texture. The material remains stable during storage, retaining its visual identity and mild herbaceous aroma over time. The cut and sifted format allows for easy handling, accurate measuring, and uniform blending for various applications.
Uses: Wild Lettuce Herb C/S is commonly used in tea-style infusions, herbal blends, and botanical preparations where dried aerial plant material is preferred. It is also suitable for cosmetic formulations, bath products, botanical sachets, craft projects, and educational collections demonstrating wild plant morphology and seasonal growth. The cut and sifted format allows for precise portioning, easy blending with other botanicals, and versatile use in both home and professional environments, offering consistent quality and visually identifiable plant fragments.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Safety & Disclaimer: Statements and products through out this site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration or Health Canada. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or illness. Individual results may vary. Always seek the advice or consult your health care provider for your health concerns. If you are pregnant or have a medical condition please consult your health provider prior to use.
