Grand Rapids Lettuce
Grand Rapids Lettuce is a classic loose-leaf cultivar of Lactuca sativa prized for its crisp texture, vigorous growth, and adaptability to cool climates.
Origin Story
Originating in Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA, Grand Rapids Lettuce was developed by Eugene Davis and introduced around 1894. It emerged from selections of open-pollinated leaf lettuce types, tailored for rapid growth and cool-season cultivation.
Classification
Belonging to the species Lactuca sativa, Grand Rapids Lettuce is classified within the leaf lettuce group, distinguished by its loose, non-heading growth habit among the broader lettuce family.
Appearance or Form
This cultivar forms loose, open rosettes of bright green, heavily ruffled leaves with a crisp texture. Plants typically reach about 25 cm in height, showcasing frilled leaves arranged in an airy, non-compact head.
Behavior or Usage
Grand Rapids Lettuce thrives in cool climates and matures quickly within 45 to 55 days. It is commonly harvested using a cut-and-come-again method, allowing multiple leaf harvests throughout the growing season. Its mild flavor and crispness make it ideal for fresh salads, sandwiches, and garnishes.
Merchandise & Prints
Bring this kind into your world � illustrated posters, mugs, and shirts.
Grand Rapids Lettuce Poster
Archival print, museum-grade paper
Buy Poster
Grand Rapids Lettuce Mug
Stoneware mug, dishwasher safe
Buy Mug
Grand Rapids Lettuce Shirt
Soft cotton tee, unisex sizes
Buy ShirtAttributes & Insights
Taxon-Specific Insights
🌍Cultural Significance
Widely cultivated across North America, especially in the Midwest United States and Canada, Grand Rapids Lettuce has become a staple in home gardens and commercial markets, symbolizing dependable cool-season leafy greens in regional agriculture.
📌Notable Facts
- Developed in the late 19th century by Eugene Davis in Michigan.
- Known for moderate resistance to bolting, extending its harvest window.
- Leaves are bright green and heavily ruffled, offering a distinctive texture.
- Susceptible to downy mildew, though resistant strains have been bred.
- Popular for cut-and-come-again harvesting, supporting sustainable leaf production.
🥬Varieties And Types
Grand Rapids Lettuce is a representative of the leaf lettuce type, characterized by loose, non-heading growth and frilled leaves. While it does not have widely recognized sub-varieties, it is closely related to other open-leaf cultivars favored for rapid growth and cool-season production.
Visual Variations
Composition & Context
Taxon-Specific Insights
🌱Cultivation Tips
For best results, sow Grand Rapids Lettuce in cool weather, ideally early spring or fall. Ensure well-drained, fertile soil with consistent moisture to promote crisp, tender leaves. Avoid high heat to prevent bolting, and consider planting resistant strains to mitigate downy mildew risks.
🍽️Nutritional Information
Like most lettuces, Grand Rapids Lettuce is low in calories and rich in water content, providing dietary fiber, vitamins A and K, and antioxidants. Its crisp leaves contribute to hydration and support a healthy diet when consumed fresh.
🐛Common Pests And Diseases
Grand Rapids Lettuce is susceptible to downy mildew caused by Bremia lactucae, which can affect leaf quality. It shows moderate resistance to bolting but can be vulnerable to common lettuce pests such as aphids and slugs. Employing resistant cultivars and good cultural practices helps manage these threats effectively.