Vegetables

Lactuca sativa 'Jericho'**'

Jericho Lettuce

UnknownMediterranean

At a Glance

TypeVegetable
Habitupright
Foliagedeciduous
Height10-12 inches
Width6-8 inches

Overview

Lactuca sativa 'Jericho' is an exceptional romaine lettuce cultivar specifically bred for superior heat tolerance and bolt resistance. This premium variety produces tall, upright heads reaching 10-12 inches in height with characteristic dark green outer leaves that transition to tender, pale green hearts. The elongated leaves display a distinctive slightly savoyed texture with prominent white midribs that contribute to the variety's signature crisp crunch. What sets Lactuca sativa 'Jericho' apart from standard romaine varieties is its remarkable ability to maintain quality and sweetness even under stress conditions. The leaves retain their deep green coloration and tender texture longer in warm weather, resisting the bitter flavors that typically develop when other lettuces begin to bolt. The compact, upright growth habit and extended harvest window make this cultivar particularly valuable for both home gardeners and commercial growers seeking reliable performance in challenging growing conditions.

Native Range

Lactuca sativa originated in the Mediterranean basin and western Asia, where its wild ancestors can still be found growing naturally. Archaeological evidence suggests lettuce cultivation began over 4,500 years ago in ancient Egypt, where it was considered sacred and depicted in tomb paintings, later spreading throughout the Greek and Roman empires.

Suggested Uses

Lactuca sativa 'Jericho' excels in vegetable gardens, raised beds, and container growing systems where its compact size and upright habit make efficient use of space. This variety is particularly valuable for succession planting programs to ensure continuous harvests throughout the growing season. The exceptional heat tolerance makes it ideal for extending the lettuce season in warm climates. Perfect for commercial market gardening due to its reliable performance and extended shelf life. The crisp texture and mild flavor make it excellent for Caesar salads, wraps, sandwiches, and any culinary application requiring high-quality romaine lettuce.

How to Identify

Lactuca sativa 'Jericho' can be readily identified by its distinctive upright romaine architecture featuring dark green, elongated leaves with pronounced white midribs running down the center. The leaves exhibit a characteristic slightly savoyed surface texture and form tight, compact heads that stand erect without support. Key identifying features include the variety's exceptional retention of deep green coloration even in warm weather, resistance to premature flowering, and the contrast between the darker outer leaves and pale green interior hearts. Unlike other romaine varieties that may show signs of stress or bitterness in heat, Lactuca sativa 'Jericho' maintains its crisp texture and sweet flavor profile.

Appearance

Bloom Information

Flowers only if bolting; grown for leaves

Detailed Descriptions

Flower Description

Yellow (insignificant, only when bolting)

Foliage Description

dark green outer leaves with pale green hearts and prominent white midribs

Growing Conditions

Sun Requirements

full sun to partial shade

Soil pH

6.0-7.0

Water & Climate

Water Needs

moderate

Time to Maturity

70-80 days

Care & Maintenance

Care Guide

Lactuca sativa 'Jericho' thrives in well-draining, fertile soil enriched with organic matter and requires consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Water regularly to maintain evenly moist soil, applying water at the base to avoid wetting the leaves, which can promote disease. The shallow root system benefits from mulching to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Feed with a balanced fertilizer at planting, followed by light applications of nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during active growth. In regions with intense summer heat, provide afternoon shade or use row covers to maintain optimal growing conditions and extend the harvest period.

Pruning

Lactuca sativa 'Jericho' requires minimal pruning beyond regular harvesting and maintenance. Remove any yellowing, damaged, or diseased outer leaves promptly to maintain plant health and prevent pest issues. For continuous harvest, pick individual outer leaves when they reach 4-6 inches in length, allowing the central growing point to continue producing new leaves. Alternatively, harvest entire heads when fully mature but before any signs of bolting appear. Cut the entire head at soil level using a sharp knife, leaving the root system intact for potential regrowth.

⚠️ Toxicity Warning

Lactuca sativa 'Jericho' is completely safe and non-toxic to humans, with all parts of the plant being edible, though the leaves are the primary harvest portion. The variety poses no toxicity concerns for pets, children, or livestock. Like all lettuce varieties, it provides nutritional benefits including vitamins A, C, and K, along with folate and various minerals.

Planting Guide

Planting Methods & Timing

Planting Method

both

Indoor Start

4 weeks before last frost

Direct Sow Timing

early spring through late summer

Days to Maturity

70–80 days

Plant Spacing

8 inches

Companion Planting

Good Companions

carrots
radishes
chives
garlic
onions
tomatoes

Avoid Planting With

fennel
broccoli
sunflowers