Lettuce ‘Val d’Orge’ is a historic French butterhead lettuce, valued for its exceptional hardiness. It dates back to heritage seed catalogs and is cultivated primarily for autumn sowing and spring harvesting. The exact breeder is unknown, but its long-standing presence in French potager literature confirms it as a reliably rustic, heirloom variety. This variety produces large heads of smooth, pale blond-green leaves. The foliage is broad and flat, slightly crisp, and forms moderately tight butterhead-style heads about 25 cm across and deep. The texture is tender yet sturdy, with a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It is renowned for cold tolerance and winter resilience. Fabulous for spring salads.
Scientific Name: Lactuca Sativa
Plant Life Cycle: annual
Optimal Germination Temperature: 8-20C
Germination time in days: 7-10 days
Indicative Days to maturity: 65-75 days
Sunlight: Full sun
Soil requirement: well-drained, light soil
Sowing and cultivation: Sow in September for overwintering, Distance sowing by 30 cm. Protect with fleece, cloches, or a cold frame in winter. Avoid waterlogging in colder months. Harvest from April to May.
