Lettuce, from the Asteraceae family and species Lactuca sativa, is a cool-weather leafy
green native to the Mediterranean region. It forms loose or compact heads of broad, tender,
pale to bright green leaves with mild flavor. Depending on variety, plants grow 15–30 cm tall
with leaves 10–25 cm long, arranged in rosettes. Lettuce is low in calories but provides
vitamin K, A, and folate, supporting hydration, blood clotting, and cellular health. It’s
commonly eaten raw in salads, sandwiches, and wraps. It stores best wrapped in a damp
paper towel and sealed in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to a week.