Wild Lettuce vs Old Man of the Andes
Complete comparison between Wild Lettuce and Old Man of the Andes to help you choose the ideal plant.
Wild Lettuce or Old Man of the Andes: Which to Choose?
Old Man of the Andes is easier to care for than Wild Lettuce, winning 4 of 10 attributes. Wild Lettuce needs watering every 7 days vs Old Man of the Andes every 14 days. Choose Old Man of the Andes for a low-maintenance option. Choose Wild Lettuce if you prefer faster growth.
Wild Lettuce
Lactuca virosa
Old Man of the Andes
Austrocylindropuntia vestita
Wild Lettuce vs Old Man of the Andes: Which Is Easier to Care For?
| Attribute | Wild Lettuce | Old Man of the Andes |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | Medium | Medium |
| Light | Direct sun | Direct sun |
| Watering | Every 7 days | Every 14 days✓ |
| Humidity | 40% - 70% | 20% - 50%✓ |
| Temperature | -15°C - 35°C | 2°C - 30°C |
| Height | 2.0m | 60cm |
| Growth | Fast✓ | Slow |
| Pet Safe | No | Yes✓ |
| Air Purifying | No | No |
| Indoor | No | Yes✓ |
Should You Choose Wild Lettuce or Old Man of the Andes?
Old Man of the Andes is the best choice for most people, especially beginners looking for a low-maintenance plant.
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What Makes Wild Lettuce a Good Choice?
Wild Lettuce is a low-maintenance biennial that thrives in full sun with well-draining, sandy loam soil. Water regularly during dry spells but allow the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings. Fertilise every 2–3 weeks during the growing season with a nitrogen-rich feed. It tolerates light frost and adapts to a range of soil conditions including poor or rocky ground. Deadhead spent flowers to control self-seeding.
View Wild Lettuce page →What Makes Old Man of the Andes a Good Choice?
A hardy, slow-growing cactus that thrives in bright direct sunlight and well-draining mineral soil. Water sparingly every 14 days during the growing season and keep almost completely dry in winter. Excellent cold tolerance for a cactus, surviving light frost.
View Old Man of the Andes page →