Lollo Rosso Darky

Lettuce

Zone 11b Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Lollo Rosso Darky

🌱 45d to harvest Rosette

Velvety rosettes of Lollo Rosso Darky unfurl in a dramatic, wine-dark palette—deep burgundy leaves with a faint, silken sheen tha…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Dec 4th
Last Frost	Jan 1st
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Dec 25th
Harvest Begins	Feb 8th
Harvest Ends	Dec 31st

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	45
Sun Requirements	Part Sun
Growth Habit	Rosette
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Surface
Germination Temp (°F)	40
Min Soil Temp (°F)	40
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	5

Recommended Companions

Paris Market Carrot

Beauty Heart Radish

Rainbow Carrot

Long Black Spanish Radish

Hercules Carrot

Napa Carrot

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most commonly affects Lactuca sativa (Lollo Rosso Darky), and how can I control it?

Lettuce commonly suffers from aphids and downy mildew (a fast-moving fungal issue in cool, damp weather). Rinse plants with a strong spray of water to knock off aphids, then remove heavily infested leaves and keep airflow by thinning so the frills dry quickly. For downy mildew, avoid overhead watering, water at soil level, and remove infected leaves immediately to prevent spread.

How often should I water Lollo Rosso Darky during its main growing phase, and what soil moisture should I aim for?

During the ~45-day growth to harvest, keep the soil consistently evenly moist—aim for damp-to-the-touch top 1 inch without letting it stay soggy. In warm weather, this often means watering about 1–3 times per week, but only when the top inch begins to dry; in cooler conditions, you may need less. If lettuce dries too much and then gets a sudden soaking, it can turn bitter and slow growth, so maintain steady moisture.

How do I tell when Lollo Rosso Darky is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the rosettes are full-sized for the variety and the leaves feel tender rather than tough, typically around 45 days from sowing. Look for frilly outer leaves that are at least several inches long with good color, and pick by cutting the whole rosette near the soil line. If you harvest in the cool part of the day, the leaves stay crisp longer.

Velvety rosettes of Lollo Rosso Darky unfurl in a dramatic, wine-dark palette—deep burgundy leaves with a faint, silken sheen that looks almost lacquered in the garden light. The flavor is pleasantly tangy and sweet, with a tender, ruffled texture that stays crisp and lively from first harvest through repeat cuttings. Ideal for fresh salads and vibrant garnishes, its bold color makes every bowl look freshly dressed with color and character.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 40°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 5 days first.

Expert Note

For loose-leaf types like this, keep soil evenly moist and avoid heat—shade in warm spells helps prevent bitterness and early bolting.