Species
Lactuca sativaLettuce8 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
A French heirloom butterhead (or Bibb) lettuce that forms a loose head of tender, buttery-textured leaves.
An exceptionally beautiful and cold-hardy cultivar, its name means 'Marvel of Four Seasons'. It features reddish-bronze outer leaves surrounding a crisp, pale green to creamy yellow heart.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
12 inches
Width
12 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
Mediterranean region
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Summer – Early summer
In flower about 12 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds ¼ inch deep into moist soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist during germination.
- Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once established.
- Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer every 4–6 weeks.
- Harvest leaves when young for tender flavor, typically 45–60 days after planting.
Pro Tip
Use succession planting to enjoy continuous harvests throughout the season.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding
- Mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds
- Harvest regularly for best flavor
Don't
- Avoid letting soil dry out completely ❌
- Don't over-fertilize, which can cause bitter leaves
- Refrain from harvesting excessively early or late
- Avoid planting in overly shaded areas
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Marvel of Four Seasons questions
What zones can Marvel of Four Seasons grow in?
Marvel of Four Seasons is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Marvel of Four Seasons deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Marvel of Four Seasons, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Marvel of Four Seasons bloom?
Marvel of Four Seasons typically blooms in summer through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Marvel of Four Seasons need full sun?
Marvel of Four Seasons does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Lactuca to compare
Little Gem Lettuce
Lactuca sativa 'Little Gem'
Buttercrunch Lettuce
Lactuca sativa 'Buttercrunch'
Brentwood Lettuce
Lactuca sativa 'Brentwood'
Hampton Lettuce
Lactuca sativa 'Hampton'
Lettuce Mix
Lactuca sativa 'Mix'
Drunken Woman Frizzy Headed Lettuce
Lactuca sativa 'Drunken Woman Frizzy Headed'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Marvel of Four Seasons with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.