Classification
 Nomenclature
Scientific Name:
Lactuca L., Sp. Pl. 795-796 (1753)
 Description

Annual to perennial taprooted or rhizomatous herbs. Hairs bristly, spinous, or 0. Stems usually branching above. Lvs basal and cauline, pinnatifid to entire. Infl. a diffuse panicle, or spicate with capitula sessile in axillary clusters. Involucral bracts glabrous; outer bracts small; inner bracts becoming larger, not in distinct rows. Receptacle pitted, without scales or hairs. Corolla ligulate, yellow. Achenes pale or dark, 5–35, flattened, usually ribbed; beak paler than achene or concolorous; pappus bristles in 2 rows of equal length, white, > achene body, simple, free to base.

[From: Webb et al. (1988) Flora of New Zealand. Volume 4.]

 Biostatus
Exotic
Number of species in New Zealand within Lactuca L.
CategoryNumber
Exotic: Fully Naturalised4
Total4
 Bibliography
Biosecurity New Zealand 4 Aug 2011: Unwanted Organisms Register. http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/pests/registers/uor
Linnaeus, C. 1753: Species Plantarum. Impensis Laurentii Salvii, Stockholm.
Mabberley, D.J. 2008: Mabberley's plant book, a portable dictionary of plants, their classification and uses. Edition 3. Cambridge University Press.
Ministry for Primary Industries 23 Feb 2017: Unwanted Organisms Register. Version 02.01.02. https://www1.maf.govt.nz/uor