Celtuce Seeds - Stem Lettuce and Asparagus Lettuce
Celtuce is a special form of garden lettuce in which the thick, juicy stem is mainly used. The plants develop a strong flowering stem with a crisp texture and a slightly nutty flavour and are therefore also known as stem lettuce or asparagus lettuce.
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Celtuce belongs botanically to the species Lactuca sativa and is an Asian cultivated form of garden lettuce. While classic lettuce varieties are mainly grown for their leaves, the thick stem is the main part harvested from celtuce.
The plants grow upright and can reach up to one metre in height. Besides the stem, the young leaves can also be used as salad greens. The peeled stem is similar to asparagus in texture and preparation, but has a mild, slightly nutty and faintly sweet flavour.
Celtuce is particularly popular in Asian cuisine and is ideal for stir fries, steamed vegetable dishes or fresh salads.
Sowing and Growing Celtuce
Celtuce can be started indoors or in a greenhouse from February or March. The young plants are transplanted outdoors after the last frosts. Alternatively, direct sowing in spring is also possible.
The seeds are sown about 0.5 cm deep and germinate best at mild temperatures. A spacing of about 25 to 30 cm gives the plants enough room to develop strong stems.
Celtuce prefers sunny to partially shaded locations with loose, humus rich soil. Consistent watering and moderate fertilisation support the steady growth of the succulent stem.
Growing Celtuce in the Garden
Celtuce is an interesting alternative to classic leaf lettuces. While the young leaves can be used like ordinary lettuce, the culinary focus lies on the peeled stem.
This is harvested shortly before flowering, peeled and then eaten raw, steamed or prepared in stir fries. With its unusual use, celtuce combines characteristics of leafy vegetables and stem vegetables and brings variety to the vegetable garden.
FAQ about Celtuce
What is celtuce?
Celtuce is an Asian cultivated form of garden lettuce in which the thick, juicy stem is mainly used. The stem is peeled and prepared in a similar way to asparagus or other vegetables.
When do you harvest celtuce?
The stem is harvested before the plant begins to flower. At this stage it is particularly tender and aromatic.
Can the leaves also be eaten?
Yes, the young leaves of celtuce can be used like ordinary leaf lettuce, although they are usually slightly more bitter than classic head lettuces.
