Louisiana Lettuce
Lactuca ludoviciana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–48" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, AZ, CA, CO and 20 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Louisiana lettuce is a tall annual wildflower that produces clusters of small yellow flowers throughout summer. It naturally reseeds and provides consistent summer color in low-maintenance landscapes.
In an HOA neighborhood
Louisiana Lettuce takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Can appear weedy and unkempt
- May self-seed aggressively
- Dies back completely in winter as biennial
Wildlife value
The flowers attract various pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies during the long summer blooming period. Seeds provide food for birds and small wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Louisiana Lettuce need?
- Louisiana Lettuce grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Louisiana Lettuce bloom?
- Louisiana Lettuce blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Louisiana Lettuce native?
- Louisiana Lettuce (Lactuca ludoviciana) is native to AR, AZ, CA, CO and 20 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Louisiana Lettuce attract?
- Louisiana Lettuce draws bees, beetles, and flies.
- Is Louisiana Lettuce HOA-friendly?
- Louisiana Lettuce takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Louisiana Lettuce? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz