‘Cos Verdi’ is everything a lettuce should be – crisp, reliable, and delicious. It’s the kind of salad green that forms the backbone of a kitchen garden, easy to grow and endlessly useful.

Lettuce ‘Cos Verdi’ (Lactuca sativa var. longifolia) is a classic green cos (romaine) lettuce, loved for its tall, crisp heads and sweet crunch. The name “Verdi” simply means “green” in Italian, and this variety is all about freshness – vibrant, upright leaves that are tender on the inside and sturdy enough to hold their shape in salads, wraps, or on the barbecue. Originating from traditional European cos lettuces that have been grown since ancient Roman times, this type of lettuce has never gone out of fashion.

Nutritious and versatile, cos lettuces like ‘Verdi’ are rich in vitamin A, vitamin K, folate, and fibre, making them one of the healthiest leafy greens you can grow. Their firm ribs and sweet flavour make them perfect for Caesar salads, sandwiches, or even grilled as a whole heart for a modern twist.

How to Grow:

Growing ‘Cos Verdi’ from seed is simple and rewarding. Sow seeds directly into fertile, well-drained soil in spring or autumn, or start in trays and transplant seedlings once they’re sturdy.

Space plants around 25–30 cm apart and water regularly to keep the leaves sweet and tender. I

n warm Australian summers, it appreciates a little afternoon shade to prevent bolting.

Harvest the whole head once mature, or pick the outer leaves as needed for a continuous supply.