Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of lettuce plant: A variety of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) characterized by its growth habit. The leaves are loosely arranged, forming an open cluster or rosette, rather than a tight, solid ball (head).
   • The edible leaves of this plant: The green, often curly or frilly leaves of this lettuce variety, used in salads and other dishes.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • I prefer the tender texture of leaf lettuce in my salads.
  • The gardener planted a row of leaf lettuce next to the tomatoes.
  • This recipe calls for two cups of chopped leaf lettuce.

Advanced Usage

• Botanical distinction: In botanical or gardening contexts, "leaf lettuce" is explicitly contrasted with "head lettuce" (like iceberg) and "romaine/cos lettuce." Its defining feature is the non-forming of a compact head.
  • The variety 'Oak Leaf' is a classic example of leaf lettuce.

Variants and Related Words

• Loose-leaf lettuce: A common synonym for "leaf lettuce," emphasizing the loose growth of the leaves.
• Cut-and-come-again lettuce: A term describing how leaf lettuce can be harvested by cutting leaves, allowing the plant to regrow.
• Lettuce (noun): The general plant genus () and its edible leaves, which includes head lettuce, romaine, and leaf lettuce.

Synonyms

• Loose-leaf lettuce
• Bunching lettuce (less common)

Related Terms (Not Phrasal Verbs or Idioms)

• Greens: A general term for leafy vegetable plants, which can include leaf lettuce.
• Salad greens: A mix of leafy vegetables suitable for salads, often containing leaf lettuce.

Noun

1. lettuce with loosely curled leaves that do not form a compact head
2. distinguished by leaves having curled or incised leaves forming a loose rosette that does not develop into a compact head