Lactuca sativa 'Parris Islands Cos'
annual

Parris Islands Cos Lettuce

Lactuca sativa 'Parris Islands Cos'

The Story

Plant Bio

Parris Islands Cos is a romaine-type lettuce known for its crisp texture and sweet flavor. It performs well in cooler temperatures.

This cultivar is particularly resistant to bolting and thrives in heat compared to other lettuce types.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesLettuce adds lush greenery and edible foliage to vegetable beds, enhancing visual appeal.
Practical UsesProvides fresh, nutritious greens for salads and sandwiches, promoting healthy eating.
Ecological BenefitsAttracts beneficial insects and supports pollinator activity in the garden.
SpeciesLactuca sativaLettuce

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

24 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Consistent moisture essential

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Europe and Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds ¼ inch deep into moist soil in early spring.
  2. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged for germination.
  3. Thin seedlings to 12 inches apart once established.
  4. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to promote tender leaves.
  5. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
  6. Harvest leaves when young and tender for best flavor.

Pro Tip

Use compost-rich soil for vigorous growth and sweeter leaves.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Apply organic compost monthly for healthy growth
  • Remove weeds regularly to reduce competition

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t let soil dry out completely
  • Avoid using chemical pesticides that can harm beneficial insects

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Harvest
Pest Check
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Edible border with lush, leafy textureVegetable garden centerpieceHerbaceous edible hedge

Companion Plants

Carrots Radishes Cucumbers Marigolds Basil

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Parris Islands Cos Lettuce questions

What zones can Parris Islands Cos Lettuce grow in?

Parris Islands Cos Lettuce is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Parris Islands Cos Lettuce deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Parris Islands Cos Lettuce, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

Does Parris Islands Cos Lettuce need full sun?

Parris Islands Cos Lettuce does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

More Lactuca to compare

Little Gem Lettuce

Little Gem Lettuce

Lactuca sativa 'Little Gem'

Zones 4–10· 101 saves
Buttercrunch Lettuce

Buttercrunch Lettuce

Lactuca sativa 'Buttercrunch'

Zones 4–10· 70 saves
Brentwood Lettuce

Brentwood Lettuce

Lactuca sativa 'Brentwood'

Zones 4–10· 66 saves
Hampton Lettuce

Hampton Lettuce

Lactuca sativa 'Hampton'

Zones 4–10· 65 saves
Lettuce Mix

Lettuce Mix

Lactuca sativa 'Mix'

Zones 4–10· 61 saves
Drunken Woman Frizzy Headed Lettuce

Drunken Woman Frizzy Headed Lettuce

Lactuca sativa 'Drunken Woman Frizzy Headed'

Zones 4–10· 43 saves

Keep exploring

Explore the genus

Grow Parris Islands Cos Lettuce 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.

Join Sow for Free