Lechuga Martina
Martina lettuce (Lactuca sativa) flourishes in the winter in a specific region of the Basque Country, Montaña Alavesa, particularly around Arluzea and Marquinez. Its name comes from the woman who decades ago saved the seeds. The flowering scape is pale and thick, while the leaves are tender and very flavorful. The seeds are white, and to obtain them some plants are left in the ground until the flowers have opened, then cut and left to dry inside a bag to protect them from birds. The seeds are sown in January and the lettuce is harvested in early May. The only pests that threaten the lettuce are snails.
Martina lettuce has long been grown in every vegetable garden in Arluzea and Marquinez. It is not found on the market, as it is only grown for home consumption. Though it is closely linked to the local traditions and culture, the lettuce is now at risk of disappearing. The risk is high because the lettuce is only found in the winter and grows more slowly compared to commercial varieties. The seeds are also only stored by a tiny group of fairly elderly farmers who live in a specific small area around Montaña Alavesa.
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