Dutch Broad Leaved Corn Salad (Mâche), Heirloom Greens Seeds

Bring tender, nutty greens to the table when cool weather returns. Dutch Broad Leaved corn salad, also called mâche or lamb’s lettuce, forms low rosettes of smooth, spoon-shaped green leaves. Its mild flavor and delicate texture make a lovely fresh salad, a soft counterpoint to sharper greens, or a finishing handful for sandwiches and warm dishes.

Why Grow Dutch Broad Leaved Mâche?

• A cool-season favorite: Sow for spring or fall picking, with overwintering possible where climate and protection allow.
• Tender leaves and mild, nutty flavor: Enjoy small rosettes with a light dressing rather than overpowering their delicate texture.
• Small-space friendly: Low-growing plants fit raised beds, containers, and kitchen-garden edges.
• Open-pollinated heirloom: A traditional salad green grown for its broad leaves.

Growing Notes

Direct sow in early spring or late summer to early fall as temperatures cool. Sow about ¼ inch deep in fertile, well-draining soil and keep evenly moist during germination. Thin to 4–6 inches apart, allowing more room for larger rosettes. Choose full sun in cool weather or light shade where conditions are warmer. Hot weather encourages bolting; this is a cool-season crop, not a summer lettuce replacement.

For a longer picking season, sow small batches at intervals while conditions remain suitable. A cold frame or other season protection can extend harvest, but outdoor winter picking depends on your weather, planting date, and protection. Plants grow slowly during the shortest days.

Harvest Details

• Days to maturity: Approximately 50 days from sowing in suitable conditions; allow longer in cold weather.
• Harvest: Pick tender outer leaves or cut whole rosettes near soil level before flowering. Wash thoroughly to remove soil caught around the leaf bases.
• Seeds per packet: Approximately 150+ seeds.
• Packet weight: 0.46 g.
• Plant type: Cool-season annual salad green; open-pollinated heirloom.
• Botanical name: Valerianella locusta.
• Square foot spacing: 4 plants per sq ft for mature rosettes.

Kitchen Inspiration

Toss freshly picked leaves with a simple vinaigrette, pair with sliced apples or toasted nuts, or add to a mixed salad just before serving. For a warm dish, fold leaves in at the end so they soften without losing their delicate character.

Packed and shipped by Box Garden Seeds LLC — heirloom seeds grown without GMOs, for gardeners who enjoy bringing something fresh from a small garden to the table.