Abstract: The uptake, accumulation and effects of environmentally relevant platinum group elements (PGE; Rh, Pd and Pt) on Lactuca sativa were investigated. Seedlings were exposed to nutrient solution amended with mixed solutions of PGE (0, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 and 1.0 ppm each) of PGE (Pt, Pd and Rh as a mixture) for a period of 4 weeks. The results showed a significant (p<0.05) reduction in plant dry weight, nitrate reductase activity, protein content and photosynthesis efficiency when treated with concentrations greater than 0.5 ppm. The treatments also induced oxidative stress and membrane damage, as indicated by catalase activity and lipid peroxidation assays, respectively. Metal analysis in plant tissues by ICP-MS showed that accumulation followed the order Rh ~ Pt >> Pd. Seedlings exposed to 1.0 ppm of PGE for a period of 4 weeks accumulated about 50 mg kg-1 of Rh and Pt and about 30 mg kg-1 of Pd. The results of this study have exemplified the potential effects of these elements, albeit at concentrations in excess of typical environmental levels.