Overview
Lactuca sativa 'Jericho Romaine' is a heat-tolerant romaine lettuce cultivar specifically bred for performance in challenging growing conditions. This annual vegetable forms upright, elongated heads with crisp, dark green outer leaves and pale green to cream-colored hearts. The leaves are characteristically long and narrow with prominent white midribs, displaying the classic romaine architecture with leaves that curve slightly inward to form a loose head.
The cultivar 'Jericho Romaine' is distinguished by its exceptional bolt resistance and ability to maintain quality in warm weather conditions where other lettuce varieties typically fail. The leaves have a satisfying crunch and mild, slightly sweet flavor that intensifies toward the outer leaves. Plants typically reach 10-12 inches in height with a compact, space-efficient growth habit that makes them suitable for both field production and home gardens.
Native Range
Lactuca sativa originated in the Mediterranean region and western Asia, likely derived from wild lettuce species native to areas spanning from the Mediterranean basin through Turkey and into central Asia. The species has been cultivated for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence suggesting cultivation in ancient Egypt and Greece.Suggested Uses
Lactuca sativa 'Jericho Romaine' works well in vegetable gardens, raised beds, and containers. Ideal for succession planting to ensure continuous harvests, and particularly valuable for warm-season growing where bolt resistance is essential. Excellent for fresh eating, Caesar salads, wraps, and grilling. The compact size makes it suitable for small-space gardening and intensive planting systems.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height10" - 1'2"
Width/Spread8" - 10"
Bloom Information
Bolting is delayed 2–3 weeks compared to standard romaine cultivars in warm conditions. When bolting does occur, a central flower stalk 3–4 feet (90–120 cm) tall emerges from the head apex, bearing small yellow composite flower heads typical of Lactuca. In the Pacific Northwest, bolting typically occurs in late August or September if plants are left unharvested.Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
dark green with pale green to cream heartsGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Water & Climate
Water Needs
Time to Maturity
60-70 days
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Lactuca sativa 'Jericho Romaine' requires consistent moisture and well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Water regularly, providing approximately 1 inch per week, and maintain even soil moisture to prevent bitterness and bolting. Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and side-dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizer 3-4 weeks after transplanting. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade or use row covers during extreme heat to maintain quality.Pruning
Harvest the entire head by cutting at the soil line when firm. Alternatively, pick outer leaves progressively while the head continues to develop. Cut stumps may produce a smaller secondary head. Remove bolting plants promptly and compost if disease-free.Maintenance Level
lowContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 3 gallons
⚠️ Toxicity Warning
Lactuca sativa 'Jericho Romaine' is non-toxic and safe for human consumption. All parts of the plant are edible, though the leaves are the primary harvest. Generally safe around pets, though large quantities of any lettuce may cause mild digestive upset in some animals.Planting Guide
Planting Methods & Timing
Planting Method
both
Indoor Start
4 weeks before last frost
Direct Sow Timing
early spring through fall, 2-3 weeks before last frost
Days to Maturity
60–70 days
Plant Spacing
8 inches