Iceberg lettuce
Iceberg lettuce is a crisphead variety of Lactuca sativa known for its tightly packed, round heads and pale green, crunchy leaves, making it one of the most widely grown and consumed lettuces worldwide.
Origin Story
Originating in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, iceberg lettuce was first commercially introduced with the 'Imperial' variety by the Burpee Seed Company in 1894. It was developed through selective breeding from European butterhead and heading lettuces, aiming to enhance head firmness, transportability, and shelf life.
Classification
Iceberg lettuce belongs to the species Lactuca sativa and is classified within the Crisphead horticultural group. It is scientifically recognized as Lactuca sativa var. capitata, distinguishing it by its dense, spherical heads compared to other lettuce types like Romaine or Butterhead.
Appearance or Form
Characterized by a round head approximately 17.5 cm in diameter, iceberg lettuce features pale green leaves that are notably crisp and succulent. The leaves form a compact, tightly packed head, prized for its firm texture and high water content exceeding 95%.
Behavior or Usage
Primarily consumed raw, iceberg lettuce is a staple in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish due to its mild flavor and crunchy texture. Its dense head structure lends itself well to transport and storage, making it a preferred choice for whole heads, pre-cut portions, and packaged salad mixes in retail markets.
Merchandise & Prints
Bring this kind into your world � illustrated posters, mugs, and shirts.
Iceberg lettuce Poster
Archival print, museum-grade paper
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Iceberg lettuce Mug
Stoneware mug, dishwasher safe
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Iceberg lettuce Shirt
Soft cotton tee, unisex sizes
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Taxon-Specific Insights
🌍Cultural Significance
Iceberg lettuce holds a prominent place in global food culture, especially in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia, where it dominates commercial markets. While less favored in gourmet cuisine for its mild taste and lower nutrient density, it remains a symbol of freshness and convenience in everyday meals and fast food.
📌Notable Facts
- Iceberg lettuce contains over 95% water, contributing to its refreshing crispness.
- It was first commercialized in 1894 with the 'Imperial' variety.
- Despite its popularity, it is sensitive to heat and prone to tipburn and certain diseases.
- Its dense heads allow for a shelf life of up to three weeks under refrigeration.
- Heritage cultivars include 'Imperial', 'Great Lakes', and 'Salinas'.
🥬Varieties And Types
Within the Crisphead group, iceberg lettuce includes several notable cultivars such as 'Imperial', the first commercial variety, as well as 'Great Lakes' and 'Salinas'. These cultivars have been selectively bred for improved disease resistance, uniformity, and shelf life, maintaining the characteristic dense, round head and crisp texture.
Visual Variations
Composition & Context
Taxon-Specific Insights
🌱Cultivation Tips
Iceberg lettuce thrives in cool climates with optimal temperatures between 15 and 18°C. It prefers well-drained soils and requires careful management to avoid heat stress, which can cause bolting or tipburn. Harvest typically occurs between 70 and 85 days after sowing. Maintaining high humidity and refrigeration post-harvest extends shelf life up to three weeks.
🍽️Nutritional Information
Iceberg lettuce is composed of over 95% water, offering a refreshing low-calorie option. While it contains fewer nutrients than darker leafy lettuces, it provides dietary fiber, small amounts of vitamins A and K, and hydration benefits, making it a popular choice for light, crisp salads.
🐛Common Pests And Diseases
Iceberg lettuce is susceptible to several common threats including tipburn, downy mildew, and lettuce mosaic virus. Modern cultivars have been bred for improved resistance to some pathogens, but growers must monitor crops closely and apply integrated pest management practices to maintain healthy plants.