Chinese Narrow Leaf Lettuce with chopped lettuce in a bowl on a white background.
Chinese Narrow Leaf Lettuce in a vase behind two bowls of salad greens with loose leaves on the side.
Chinese Narrow Leaf Lettuce surrounds a bowl of chopped leaves and tomatoes in a bowl.
Closeup of Chinese Narrow Leaf Lettuce in a vase behind two bowls of salad greens with loose leaves on the side.
Chinese Narrow Leaf Lettuce with chopped lettuce in a bowl on a white background.
Chinese Narrow Leaf Lettuce in a vase behind two bowls of salad greens with loose leaves on the side.
Chinese Narrow Leaf Lettuce surrounds a bowl of chopped leaves and tomatoes in a bowl.
Closeup of Chinese Narrow Leaf Lettuce in a vase behind two bowls of salad greens with loose leaves on the side.

Lettuce Seeds,
Chinese Narrow Leaf

54 ReviewsSKU: #LT190
Price
Regular price $3.00
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $3.00
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Min. 250 seeds

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Description

(Lactuca sativa) Cos. One of the sweetest lettuce varieties, it makes a gourmet addition to salads. This has quickly become a favorite at the Baker Creek test kitchen for its silky texture and sweet flavor! A bolt resistant, fast-growing romaine that is very popular in China, especially in cooked recipes! Use the young leaves raw in salad, like a classic romaine, or allow the leaves to grow larger and add to cooked dishes, traditionally stir fried with garlic.

Growing Tips: Chinese Narrow Leaf lettuce grows best in cooler weather, ideally between 60-80 F. It prefers well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter. Keep the soil consistently moist, avoiding waterlogging, to promote healthy growth. Space plants about 8 inches apart to ensure adequate airflow and reduce competition for nutrients. Regularly check for pests like aphids and slugs, and use row covers or shade cloths to protect the plants from extreme weather conditions.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Lactuca sativa
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
4–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
55–65
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
8 in.
Ideal Temperature
60–80°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

Growing Guide

When to Grow

This lettuce variety is best planted in early spring or late summer for a fall harvest. It does well in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9. Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost or sow them directly outdoors 2-4 weeks before the last frost. For fall planting, sow seeds in late summer, allowing enough time for the plants to mature before the first frost. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays with a quality seed-starting mix to start indoors or directly sow outside in well-prepared soil. Sow in thick bands for baby greens or space farther apart, about 8 inches, for head lettuce. Keep the soil moist until germination occurs. If starting indoors, harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week before transplanting them to their permanent location.

How to Grow

Chinese Narrow Leaf lettuce requires 4-8 hours of sun daily. Maintain consistent soil moisture, providing about 1-2 inches of water per week. Mulching can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. If the soil is rich in organic matter, additional fertilization may not be necessary. Protect plants from extreme heat and pests using shade cloths and appropriate pest control measures. Harvest the leaves as needed or cut the entire head when mature.

How to Save Seeds

  • Lettuce is a self-pollinating annual, making it an easy crop for seed saving.
  • Choose the best and healthiest plants and allow them to send up flower stalks.
  • Once seed heads are dried and have turned a yellowish-tan color, cut the entire stalk and place in a bag.
  • Crush the seed heads in the bag and separate the chaff.
  • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 years.

FAQ

How long until Chinese Narrow Leaf lettuce is ready to harvest?

This variety typically takes about 55-65 days from sowing to harvest.

How often should I water Chinese Narrow Leaf lettuce?

Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging. Water every few days, adjusting based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.

Is Chinese Narrow Leaf lettuce lettuce suitable for container gardening?

Yes, it can be grown in containers. Ensure the container has good drainage and use a fertile, well-drained potting mix.

Browse our full range of lettuce seeds.

Customer reviews

5 / 5 4 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Slow to bolt: Holds in summer heat without the leaves turning bitter.

  • Narrow romaine leaves: Upright, uniform leaves that fit sandwiches and plant close.

  • Mild and tender: Sweet, lightly crisp leaves raw or gently braised.

  • Easy to grow: Germinates fast, bugs leave it alone, and it reseeds.

More to grow!
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