Biennials, 25–90(–150+) cm. Leaves on proximal 1/3–1/2 of each stem; blades of undivided cauline leaves spatulate to lance-linear, margins entire or denticulate, midribs sometimes setose. Heads in ± paniculiform arrays. Involucres 12–20+ mm. Phyllaries usually reflexed in fruit. Florets 15–20+; corollas bluish to purplish, usually deliquescent. Cypselae: bodies brown (often mottled), ± flattened, elliptic, 5–6 mm, beaks ± filiform, 2–4 mm, faces 1(–3)-nerved; pappi white, 5–9 mm. 2n = 34.

Phenology: Flowering (Feb–)Apr–Jun(–Sep).
Habitat: Sandy ridges, pine forests, canyons
Elevation: 10–1700 m

Distribution

• Generated Map
• Legacy Map

Ala., Ariz., Colo., Fla., Ga., La., Miss., N.J., N.Mex., N.C., S.C., Tex., Mexico (Chihuahua), Central America.

Discussion

Plants in the western populations of Lactuca graminifolia have been called L. graminifolia var. arizonica McVaugh; they may belong to a Mexican species.

Selected References

None.

Lower Taxa

None.