Lettuce

Lettuce is a leafy green vegetable that people eat raw. It comes in many kinds, like iceberg, romaine, and butter lettuce. Lettuce is the star of most salads and also goes on sandwiches and burgers. It is easy to grow in a backyard garden.

Types of Lettuce

There are many different types of lettuce. Iceberg lettuce is round, crunchy, and light green. Romaine has long, tall leaves and is used in Caesar salads. Butter lettuce has soft, smooth leaves that feel like silk. Red leaf lettuce has pretty purple tips on its leaves.

History of Lettuce

People have eaten lettuce for more than 4,500 years. The ancient Egyptians were the first to grow it. They thought it was a special food for their gods. Later, the Greeks and Romans also enjoyed lettuce. Today, it is one of the most popular vegetables in America.

Fun Facts

• Lettuce is about 95 percent water.
• Lettuce is a member of the sunflower family.
• Americans eat about 30 pounds of lettuce each year.

Did You Know?

Lettuce was once thought to help people fall asleep. Ancient Romans often ate it at the end of a meal to feel calm and sleepy.