Prefers a light sandy loam and a sunny position. The wild lettuce is cultivated as a medicinal plant in many areas of Europe.

Leaves - raw or cooked. Very tender. Caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. A mild flavored oil, used in cooking, is obtained from the seeds.

Seed - sow spring or autumn in situ and only just cover the seed. Germination is usually fairly quick.

Grassy places by roads, canals etc and on banks near the sea, usually on calcareous soils.