Syrian Bronze Lettuce

Step back in time with Syrian Bronze, a stunning medieval-style lettuce that brings history and resilience to your garden. Discovered in a farm market in Homs, Syria, in 1949, this extremely rare variety is a true collector's gem. Unlike standard grocery store greens, Syrian Bronze features an open-headed growth habit with striking, upwardly spreading leaves blushed with beautiful bronze tones.

I grow this variety specifically for its exceptional performance in summer heat—it's remarkably drought-resistant, slow to bolt, and requires minimal attention, making it perfect for busy gardeners. Even better, it's proven cold-hardy down to the 20s°F in my winter garden, giving you a productive lettuce nearly year-round. Its sweet, nutty flavor and unique coloring make it as delicious as it is ornamental. Whether you're a heritage seed enthusiast or simply want a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant green that delivers crisp summer salads, Syrian Bronze is your answer.

• USDA Hardiness Zones: Typically grown as a cool-season annual in zones 3–10.
• Perennial Potential: None; it is a true annual. It completes its life cycle (seed to flower) in a single season. Easily self-sows.
• Sun Exposure: Full sun (at least 6 hours) is ideal, though it can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer climates to prevent wilting.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers fertile, well-drained soil rich in organic matter with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
• Planting Time: Early spring (2–3 weeks before the last frost) or late summer for a fall harvest. It is highly heat-tolerant and slow to bolt compared to other varieties.
• Planting Depth & Spacing: Plant seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. Space plants 8 inches apart with rows 12 inches apart.
• Watering: Requires consistent moisture. The soil should be kept damp but not waterlogged; shallow roots make it susceptible to drying out quickly. Apply mulch to cool roots and retain soil moisture.
• Temperature Sensitivity: Germinates best between 55°F and 65°F. While this variety is noted for its heat tolerance, temperatures consistently above 80°F can inhibit germination and eventually lead to bolting.
• Harvesting: Matures in 40–60 days. You can harvest individual outer leaves for a "cut and come again" method or wait for the open head to reach about 8 inches in height.
• Offering: 30 seeds.