Lettuce, Black Seeded Simpson

Lettuce, 'Black Seeded Simpson' - Lactuca sativa

'Black Seeded Simpson' is a time-tested heirloom leaf lettuce known for its vigorous growth, crinkled lime-green leaves, and sweet, mild flavor. First introduced in the mid-1800s, this variety remains a favorite among gardeners for its early harvest, exceptional heat tolerance (for a lettuce!), and tender texture that holds up beautifully in salads and sandwiches.

It grows quickly, can be cut multiple times in a season, and is adaptable to spring and fall sowings. Whether you're planting in raised beds, containers, or tucked between rows in your veggie garden, 'Black Seeded Simpson' offers abundant, delicious greens with very little fuss.

Key Characteristics

• Early and Fast-Growing Heirloom
  One of the quickest lettuces to mature-ready to harvest baby leaves in as little as 25 days. Full heads can be harvested in 40-50 days. A staple for succession planting and extended harvest windows.
• Crisp, Ruffled, Lime-Green Leaves
  The loose, open heads feature light, tender, frilled leaves with excellent sweetness and no bitterness. Great for fresh salads, lettuce wraps, or layering on sandwiches.
• Cut-and-Come-Again Harvesting
  Leaves can be harvested continuously over several weeks. Pick the outer leaves or cut the whole plant a few inches above the base to allow regrowth.
• Cool Season Staple with Some Heat Tolerance
  Thrives in cool weather but withstands more heat than most lettuces before bolting. Ideal for spring and fall crops, or protected summer plantings in cooler microclimates.
• Perfect for Raised Beds, Containers, and Interplanting
  Compact growth and shallow roots make it ideal for growing in small spaces, containers, or as an understory crop with taller vegetables.

Product Details

• Plant life cycle: Annual
• Sun requirements: Full sun to part shade (especially in warmer months)
• Soil requirements: Medium, fertile, well-drained
• Mature height: 8-12 inches
• Spread: 10-12 inches
• Days to maturity: 25-50 days
• Leaf color: Light green
• Bloom time: If allowed to bolt: June-August
• Bloom color: Pale yellow (inconspicuous)
• USDA Hardiness zones: Grown as annual in all zones

'Black Seeded Simpson' is an heirloom lettuce with speed, flavor, and flexibility-perfect for gardeners seeking reliable greens from early spring to late fall.