Lactuca perennis L.

A medium sized herb. It is hairless and keeps growing from year to year. The stems are erect and branched above. The leaves are grey-green and divided into lobes along the stalk. The segments are narrow. The upper leaves usually do not have stalks and half clasp the stem. The flower heads are pale blue to lilac. They are 30-40 mm across and borne in broad, flat topped groups. Each flower head has 12-20 rays. The achene is 10-14 mm long and black.

It is a temperate plant. It grows in dry habitats and on rocky and stony ground. It is usually on limestone. It suits hardiness zone 5.

Young or blanched leaves are used in salads. They can be eaten boiled.

Can be grown by cuttings, divisions or seedlings.