Lettuce 'Gloire du Dauphiné' is a rare and beautiful French heirloom lettuce hailing from the Dauphiné region in southeastern France, near the Alps. Beloved since the 19th century, this variety was once a common sight in French kitchen gardens and market stalls but has become increasingly hard to find. Its name—translating to "Glory of Dauphiné"—reflects both its regional pride and its exceptional quality. Traditionally grown for both its ornamental and culinary appeal, this lettuce is now being rediscovered by gardeners seeking heritage varieties with outstanding flavor and texture. Lettuce 'Gloire du Dauphiné' is a semi-heading butterhead lettuce that forms loose yet substantial rosettes of tender, softly crinkled leaves. The outer leaves are a rich green often tinged with bronze or blushes of red, especially in cooler weather, while the heart is buttery-yellow and sweet. It boasts a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a mild, slightly nutty flavor that’s perfect for gourmet salads and fresh harvests. Slow to bolt and tolerant of cooler temperatures, it performs well in spring and autumn gardens.
Scientific Name: Lactuca Sativa
Plant Life Cycle: annual
Optimal Germination Temperature: 10-16C
Germination time in days: 7-10 days
Indicative Days to maturity: 80-90 days
Sunlight: Full sun
Soil requirement: well-drained, light soil
Sowing and cultivation: Sow lettuce seeds from January to April in trays or from August to September. Sow 3 or 4 seeds over the top of regular compost from January to April or directly outdoors in August,. Distance sowing by 30 cm. Water gently, lightly cover with soil. Seeds sprout in 7-15 days.
