Native to Italy, Lollo Rosso is grown primarily as a supplemental lettuce to mix with other lettuces of varying textures and flavors. It is a red leaf type of lettuce that forms a petit and distinct compact rosette of fan-shaped blood violet leaves with a non-hearting pale green base. Besides, its leaves have a crisp, semi-succulent, hardy texture and ruffled tips. As for the flavor, this lettuce is actually bold, bitter, earthy and nutty. As a matter of fact, scientists at the University of Glasgow found in 1999 that Lollo Rosso has 100 times more antioxidants than common lettuce. It also contains the antioxidant quercetin, which is believed to help prevent asthma and allergies by acting as a natural antihistamine. In addition, this gorgeous lettuce contains vitamins A and C, folate, fiber, antioxidants, and iron.