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.
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.
Does Louisiana Lettuce fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.