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What is Boston Lettuce?

Cassie L. Damewood
Cassie L. Damewood

Boston lettuce, also known by the names Tom Thumb, Bibb, Butter and Buttercrunch, is one of six types of lettuces generally available for human consumption throughout the world. It is a member of the butterhead family, so-named based on the velvety, butter-like texture of the leaves, particularly those at the heart or internal center of the head. First popularized in Europe, it is now commonly available in many supermarkets worldwide.

The two most popular varieties of lettuce in North America are Boston and Bibb. Bibb lettuce has leaves that are narrower and darker green than Boston lettuce. It was developed by John Bibb, a Kentucky farmer, as a hybrid of Boston lettuce in the mid 1800s. Both of these varieties are frequently sold, especially in health food markets, with the roots attached to them to preserve freshness. The appearance of both lettuce types resembles a blooming rose, with soft leaves that part like rose petals.

Boston lettuce is popular in salads and rich in vitamins.
Boston lettuce is popular in salads and rich in vitamins.

This type of lettuce is rich in vitamins K, B, C and A and is an excellent source of sodium, calcium, potassium and magnesium. Boston lettuce also contains significant levels of lactucarium, which affects the human physiology much like opium. Based on these tranquilizing effects, Boston lettuce is sometimes recommended as a natural treatment for heart palpitations, spasms of the intestines and insomnia.

Boston lettuce is sometimes used to treat insomnia.
Boston lettuce is sometimes used to treat insomnia.

Based on its fragility and tendency to quickly grow limp when handled or left unrefrigerated, it is generally recommended that Boston lettuce be stored in a lightly perforated bag in the vegetable drawer of the refrigerator, with the humidity dial turned to a moderate setting. It is normally suggested that the lettuce be washed and dried immediately before serving. Boston lettuce’s large, pliable leaves make it a popular wrap for appetizers and hors d'oeuvres, and it is frequently paired with fruits and creamy cheeses.

Boston lettuce may be combined with other types of lettuce and salad greens in a homemade salad.
Boston lettuce may be combined with other types of lettuce and salad greens in a homemade salad.

There are five other types of lettuce grown as food products worldwide. They all have different properties that make them appropriate for a variety of dishes. Chinese lettuce has sturdy leaves and stems that hold up well in stir-fry cooking. Crisphead lettuce, commonly called iceberg lettuce, is so-named based on its high water content and crunchy texture. Heads of iceberg lettuce often closely resemble heads of green cabbage.

Boston lettuce is sometimes recommended as a natural treatment for heart palpitations.
Boston lettuce is sometimes recommended as a natural treatment for heart palpitations.

The variety called looseleaf looks much like arugula. It has tender stems and fragile leaves that impart a mild flavor. Romaine lettuce, also regularly referred to as Cos, is a long, lanky lettuce that has a sturdy middle rib and large, ruffled leaves. Summer Crisp lettuce, sometimes labeled Batavian, is a pleasant cross between iceberg and looseleaf. Its head is moderately dense, with tender leaves that have a mild crunchy texture.

Discussion Comments

Realited
I would imagine it's not something that can be grown just anywhere, but needs to be cultivated in the right atmosphere. Maybe somewhere that has plentiful amounts of rainfall, and that isn't a dry and arid place. I'm no gardening expert, but I would think that since lettuce is a water bearing vegetable that it needs large amounts of water. But once again, I'm no expert. These are all just guesses and assumptions on my part.
Grinderry
Seeing as how its a staple in just about any salad, it's a wonder more people don't know of the benefits of its nutritional value besides just what is available to be read on the side of a wrapper or package.
Contentum
I'm curious as to what is needed in order to grow lettuce. I see that there are varieties from just about all over the world. Does this mean anyone can grow it? Or are there certain climate requirements needed that are only present in particular locations around the globe?
Realited
Never thought about it. I usually just order something from a menu and see that it comes with a salad, but never really think about the type of lettuce in it or what health benefits it might contain.
Grinderry
Who would think there were *that* many different varieties of lettuce? You really never consider that just like flowers or certain animals, people also cross-breed different varieties of lettuce.
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    • Boston lettuce is popular in salads and rich in vitamins.
      By: JJAVA
      Boston lettuce is popular in salads and rich in vitamins.
    • Boston lettuce is sometimes used to treat insomnia.
      By: bramgino
      Boston lettuce is sometimes used to treat insomnia.
    • Boston lettuce may be combined with other types of lettuce and salad greens in a homemade salad.
      By: Kablonk Micro
      Boston lettuce may be combined with other types of lettuce and salad greens in a homemade salad.
    • Boston lettuce is sometimes recommended as a natural treatment for heart palpitations.
      By: hriana
      Boston lettuce is sometimes recommended as a natural treatment for heart palpitations.
    • Boston lettuce is one of six types of edible lettuce that grow around the world.
      By: Konstantin Yuganov
      Boston lettuce is one of six types of edible lettuce that grow around the world.
    • Boston lettuce can be added to a main dish salad made with other fresh greens and grilled chicken breast.
      By: marrakeshh
      Boston lettuce can be added to a main dish salad made with other fresh greens and grilled chicken breast.
    • Boston lettuce may be paired with cheese.
      By: atm2003
      Boston lettuce may be paired with cheese.