![](http://assets.echocommunity.org/publication_issue/db767762-cc17-4a1b-996b-f3c3a76d86ef/en/lactuca-indica-l__0.jpg?w=400)
General description and special characteristics – Tropical lettuce is an erect, self-seeding, semi-perennial originally from China that grows to 2 m (6 ft) in height and is cultivated for its long, succulent leaves. The leaves are somewhat bitter – a desirable quality for certain Asian dishes. The stem or stalk of the plant contains a milky sap and the main rib or vein in each of the leaves is often red.
Variety – ECHO Tropical