Organic 'Red Iceberg' iceberg lettuce
Organic 'Red Iceberg' iceberg lettuce (Lactuca sativa) from the seed company Gaia, a heritage pinkish-red iceberg lettuce with an irresistible crispness
'Red Iceberg' lettuce is a heritage iceberg variety with a light green head delicately tinged with pink , surrounded by deep burgundy outer leaves . Its texture is exceptionally crisp , true to the best iceberg lettuces, while its color makes it as decorative as it is flavorful. Mild, fresh, and firm, it's ideal for salads, burgers, wraps, and crisp toppings. It thrives particularly well in cooler climates and retains its optimal flavor even after a few cold nights.
Companion plants : Alliums, Radish, Marigold, Broccoli, Bean, Beetroot, Carrot, Nasturtium, Dill, Corn, Cucurbits, Coriander, Strawberry
Negative plants : Cabbage, Brussels sprouts, Celery, Parsley
Spread/carry : Compact and round head
Plant height : 15 to 20 cm
Quantity per packet : 300 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Heritage iceberg lettuce, pinkish-burgundy hue, very crisp, excellent in salads, optimal flavor in cool climates
Leaf color : Light pinkish green, dark burgundy exterior
Texture/flavor : Very crunchy, sweet and fresh
Cold tolerance : Down to -7°C
Farming method
Sow directly outdoors as soon as the soil is workable , or start seeds indoors 3 to 4 weeks before planting out. Sow seeds 6–12 mm deep. Germination takes 7 to 10 days at temperatures between 5 and 20°C , with an optimum of 16–18°C . Germination becomes difficult above 25°C . Provide partial sun/partial shade (level 2) and moderate watering (level 2). Space plants 15 cm apart, with 60 cm between rows.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest at any stage , although crispness and sweetness are best in autumn after a few cold nights . For long-term storage, keep the buds in sand in a root cellar at 1–2 °C .
Usage ideas
• In very crunchy and refreshing salads
• In burgers , tacos and wraps thanks to its firm texture
• In contrasting mixtures with red or green lettuces
• As a garnish for hot dishes to add freshness and crunch
• In wedges with creamy sauce
'Red Iceberg' lettuce combines two-tone beauty, incomparable crispness, and hardiness. An ideal heirloom iceberg lettuce for gardeners who want a firm, colorful, and flavorful lettuce all season long.
