Annuals

Lactuca sativa 'Buttercrunch'

Buttercrunch Lettuce

AsteraceaeMediterranean

At a Glance

Typeannual
Habitcompact rosette
Foliageannual
Height6-8 inches
Width6-8 inches

Growing Zones

USDA Hardiness Zones

2a - 9b
Zone 2a
Zone 2b
Zone 3a
Zone 3b
Zone 4a
Zone 4b
Zone 5a
Zone 5b
Zone 6a
Zone 6b
Zone 7a
Zone 7b
Zone 8a
Zone 8b
Zone 9a
Zone 9b
These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.
Frost Tolerancehardy

Overview

Lactuca sativa 'Buttercrunch' is an exceptional butterhead lettuce cultivar prized for its superior eating quality and reliable garden performance. This compact annual forms neat, loosely-headed rosettes typically measuring 6-8 inches across at maturity. The outer leaves are medium green with a smooth, broad shape and characteristic soft texture, gradually transitioning to pale yellow-green inner leaves that are exceptionally tender and sweet. The leaves display the classic butterhead characteristics of being pliable and buttery in texture, with delicate veining and minimal bitterness even as the plant approaches maturity. Unlike crisphead varieties, Lactuca sativa 'Buttercrunch' maintains its tender quality throughout the harvest period. The plant's compact growth habit and slow-bolting characteristics make it particularly valuable for extended harvests and small-space gardening applications.

Native Range

Lactuca sativa originates from the eastern Mediterranean basin, where it was developed from wild lettuce species native to Egypt and surrounding regions of the Middle East. Archaeological evidence suggests lettuce cultivation began over 4,000 years ago, with butterhead types like 'Buttercrunch' emerging through centuries of selective breeding in European monastery and estate gardens.

Suggested Uses

Lactuca sativa 'Buttercrunch' excels in salad gardens, raised beds, and container plantings where its compact size maximizes space efficiency. The cultivar works exceptionally well in succession planting schemes for continuous harvests and is ideal for small-space gardening including window boxes and patio containers. Its attractive rosette form makes it suitable for ornamental vegetable gardens and edible landscaping, while the premium eating quality makes it perfect for gourmet salads, sandwiches, and fresh wraps.

How to Identify

Lactuca sativa 'Buttercrunch' can be readily identified by its distinctive loose-headed formation of exceptionally soft, buttery-textured leaves arranged in a compact rosette pattern. The medium green outer leaves are notably broad and smooth with a characteristic cupped shape, while the protected inner leaves display a pale yellow-green coloration. Unlike iceberg lettuce, the heads remain loose and flexible rather than tightly packed, and unlike loose-leaf varieties, the leaves form a distinct central head rather than an open rosette.

Appearance

Bloom Information

mid to late summer when plants bolt

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

small yellow composite flowers

Foliage Description

medium green outer leaves transitioning to pale yellow-green inner leaves

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

full sun to partial shade

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate with consistent moisture

Frost Tolerance

hardy

Time to Maturity

55-65 days

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Lactuca sativa 'Buttercrunch' thrives with consistent, even moisture throughout its growing period, requiring soil that remains moist but never waterlogged. Water at the base of plants early morning to avoid wetting foliage, which can encourage fungal diseases. Apply a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer at planting time and side-dress with well-aged compost mid-season to maintain steady growth. Mulch around plants with organic matter to retain soil moisture and suppress competing weeds. In regions with intense summer heat, provide afternoon shade or use shade cloth to prevent premature bolting and bitter flavors.

Pruning

Lactuca sativa 'Buttercrunch' requires minimal pruning beyond regular harvesting and maintenance. Remove outer leaves individually as needed while allowing the center to continue developing, or harvest the entire head by cutting at the base when fully mature. Regularly remove any yellowing or damaged outer leaves to maintain plant health and prevent disease. If flower stalks begin to emerge, remove them immediately to extend the harvest period and prevent leaves from becoming bitter.

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Lactuca sativa 'Buttercrunch' is completely non-toxic and safe for human consumption at all stages of growth. All parts of the plant are edible, with the leaves being the primary harvest portion. The plant is generally safe around pets and livestock, though consumption of large quantities may cause mild digestive upset in some sensitive animals due to fiber content.

Planting Guide

Planting Methods & Timing

Planting Method

both

Indoor Start

4 weeks before last frost

Direct Sow Timing

early spring through fall, 2-4 weeks before last frost date

Days to Maturity

55–65 days

Plant Spacing

8 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

radishes
carrots
onions
chives
marigolds
nasturtiums

Avoid Planting With

fennel
sunflowers