Canadian wood nettle - Laportea canadensis (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Toxic)

Canadian wood nettle

Also known as: Wood nettle

Canadian wood nettle grows from tuberous roots to a height of 30 to 150 cm and often appears in small clumps. Although it does have stinging barbs, the plant is edible and can be steamed and used in a variety of dishes. The taste is described as similar to that of asparagus.

Scientific classification

Species

Canadian wood nettle (Laportea canadensis)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

30 cm to 1.5 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 45 cm

Spread

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer

Growth Season

Images of Canadian wood nettle

Distribution of Canadian wood nettle

Distribution Map

Canadian wood nettle is primarily native to the eastern part of North America. It has notably established a presence as an introduced species in the temperate regions of Europe. Its distribution reflects a successful adaptation to both its indigenous range and areas where it has been introduced.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Forests, seepages, streams

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Exorcism, Protection, Healing

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Toxicity

Poisoning from canadian wood nettle primarily occurs through contact with the plant, causing mild dermatitis. Stinging hairs on stems and leaves trigger intense burning, itching, and stinging, generally lasting less than an hour, with a potential rash enduring for days. Canadian wood nettle is common in open forests in North America.

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Weed Control

The canadian wood nettle is native to North America and can be found in floodplains, ravines, and stream banks in moist to wet soils in USDA zones of 3A to 10B. It is considered an invasive weed in Wisconsin but is naturalized in many parts of Canada and the United States of America. All parts of this weed can cause stinging and contact dermatitis. If necessary, canadian wood nettle can be controlled through mechanical removal such as pulling the rhizomes from the ground or close mowing. The weed can be treated with a glyphosate-based herbicide.

How to Control It

The best season to control or remove canadian wood nettle is late spring or early summer, ideally before the plant begins to flower and seed. Here are some effective and organic ways to eliminate or control canadian wood nettle:

Hand-pulling: With protective gloves on, firmly grip the weed near its base and pull it upwards gently but firmly. Try to remove as much of the root system as possible to limit regrowth.
Hoeing: Use a garden hoe to cut off canadian wood nettle at the base of the plant, underneath the soil surface. Be careful not to stir up the seeds in the soil too much to prevent additional growth.
Smothering: Cover the canadian wood nettle with a layer of cardboard, followed by a thick layer of mulch. This blocks light and suffocates the plant.
Vinegar application: Mix a solution of vinegar, a small amount of dish soap, and water. Spray directly onto canadian wood nettle, particularly on a hot, sunny day. The vinegar's acidity will help to kill the plant.
Use of weed torch: Pass a flame briefly over the canadian wood nettle. This will wilt and eventually kill the plant. Be sure to follow safety precautions while using this method.

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Quickly Identify Canadian wood nettle

Stem with white stinging hairs for slight roughness.

Large, coarse-toothed, ovate leaves with heart-shaped base.

Small, glossy black achene fruits less than 0.1 inches (2.5 mm).

Robust stem reaching 3 to 6 feet (90 to 180 cm) tall.

Inconspicuous male and female flowers less than 1/8 inch (3 mm) across.

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Care Guide for Canadian wood nettle

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Canadian wood nettle thrives in moist woodlands and prefers consistent hydration, tolerating brief dryness. A weekly watering schedule mimics its natural habitat, while seasonal rainfall supports its growth cycles, promoting lush greenery.

Propagation: The ideal time to propagate canadian wood nettle is in Spring, using sowing as the preferred method. It has a moderate difficulty level, with successful propagation marked by new shoot growth. Ensure the use of moist, fertile soil for the best results.

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Images of Canadian wood nettle

Distribution of Canadian wood nettle

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Quickly Identify Canadian wood nettle

Care Guide for Canadian wood nettle

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