Desert stingbush (Eucnide urens)

Desert stingbush

Also known as: Velcro plant

Desert stingbush is a small bush with pretty, cream-colored, five-petaled flowers. It’s leaves, however, are covered with stinging hairs, giving it its common name. It is native to the deserts of the western United States.

Scientific classification

Species

Desert stingbush (Eucnide urens)

Dogwoods, hydrangeas, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

5 cm

Flower Size

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Desert stingbush

Distribution of Desert stingbush

Distribution Map

Desert stingbush is a plant with a distribution primarily limited to the North American continent. It originally hails from regions characterized by arid and semi-arid climates. While native to this major region, desert stingbush has not been widely reported as introduced or naturalized in other parts of the world.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Dry rocky places in deserts, often on cliffs

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Exorcism, Protection, Healing

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Desert stingbush

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Water: Originating from arid environments, desert stingbush thrives with minimal moisture and has high drought tolerance. It prefers dry conditions, needing infrequent watering every 2-3 weeks. Resilient to harsh sunlight, desert stingbush is ideal for xeriscaping, efficiently storing water during extended dry periods.

Fertilize: To care for desert stingbush, use balanced nutrients and transition to high-nitrogen fertilizers to enhance growth every 2-3 months, avoiding over-fertilization. During dormancy, reduce feeding. Wear gloves to prevent stings from desert stingbush's hairs, and apply fertilizers directly to the soil, avoiding leaves.

Pruning: Desert stingbush features bristly leaves and yellow flowers, benefiting from early spring pruning to remove dead branches and improve air circulation. This promotes plant health and encourages blooming. Wear gloves to avoid irritation, and consult horticultural guides for comprehensive care instructions.

Propagation: Desert stingbush thrives in arid environments when propagated from healthy stem cuttings. Use a clean, sharp utensil, treat cut ends with rooting hormone, and plant in well-draining soil. Provide consistent moisture and warmth, avoiding waterlogging. Patience is key for stable growth development.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Learn More About Desert stingbush

How to Transplant

How to Prune

How to Grow and Care

Plant disease auto-diagnose & prevention

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App for Free