Organic 'Magenta' Lettuce

Organic 'Magenta' lettuce (Lactuca sativa) from the seed company Gaia, a vibrant red-pink lettuce with a smooth texture and mild taste

'Magenta' lettuce is a vibrant heirloom variety, prized for its striking pinkish-red color , smooth texture , and tender, crisp, slightly sweet leaves. Fast-growing and heat-tolerant , it thrives in spring and autumn , while maintaining its freshness in summer under moderate conditions. Its leafy, supple structure makes it ideal for salads , wraps , garnishes, or colorful mixed greens. Highly versatile, it adds a bright and nutritious touch to any dish.

Companion plants : Alliums, Radish, Marigold, Broccoli, Bean, Beetroot, Carrot, Nasturtium, Dill, Corn, Cucurbits, Coriander, Strawberry
Negative plants : Cabbage, Brussels sprouts, Celery, Parsley

Spread/Habit : Loose, spreading foliage
Plant height : 15 to 20 cm
Quantity per packet : 150 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Red-pink leaves, sweet-mild flavor, smooth texture, heat tolerant, fast growing

Leaf color : Bright pinkish-red, green base
Texture/flavor : Tender, smooth, crunchy, sweet
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 occurs in 7 to 10 days at temperatures between 12 and 21°C , with an optimum of 16–18°C (avoid temperatures above 25°C). Provide partial sun/partial shade (level 2) and moderate watering (level 2).
Space the plants 15 cm apart, with 30 to 45 cm between rows depending on the bed.

Harvesting and preservation

Harvest at any stage : young leaves, formed heart, or mature rosette. The best flavor is obtained after a few cool nights in autumn. Store the buds in a root cellar , in slightly damp sand, at 1–2 °C .

Usage ideas

• In brightly coloured, soft and crunchy salads
• In a mesclun mix to add contrast and texture
• In wraps thanks to its flexible and wide sheets
• As a fresh topping for sandwiches or burgers
• As edible decoration on plates or buffets

'Magenta' lettuce combines vibrant beauty, mild flavor, and good heat tolerance. A versatile and refined heirloom variety, perfect for brightening up the vegetable garden or salads.