המועדפים של jim_keesling

This was at the bus stop near the bike path.

I have seen Prickly Lettuce (Lactuca serriola) misidentified as Willow Lettuce. Here is the real Willow Lettuce, with its most distinct features:

Whereas Prickly Lettuce usually has an erect stem with the flowering branches at the top, Willow Lettuce branches at the base and the flowering stems are mostly unbranched.

Note how narrow the leaves are -- no wider than grass leaves. Even a very large plant with lobed leaves will still have them no wider than grass leaves.

There is no prominent row of pricles down the midrib (although you can feel small prickles with your finger).

Also, Prickly Lettuce is the widespread one throughout the city, whereas Willow Lettuce is in only a few locations.