Compositae Lactuca sativa var. asparagina Bailey
Source: Magness et al. 1971
This type of lettuce is grown for the edible, enlarged stem or seedstalk. Stem portions are used in many Chinese dishes, but it is a minor crop in the U.S. The leaves are edible, but of inferior quality compared to other lettuce types, so usually are discarded. Peeled stems may be eaten raw but are more frequently boiled or stewed.