The family of Compositae (Asteraceae) includes several leafy vegetables. Some of these include wild chicory or endive (Cichoriumintybus), curly chicory (Cichoriumendivia), let- tuce (Lactucasativa), and artichoke (Cyanarascolymus). Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus) is an exception and produces an edible tuber, though not widely used at present. Lettuce is one of the most popular vegetables.There are several varieties of lettuce in cluding the head lettuce, butterhead lettuce, leaf lettuce, and romaine lettuce.