Stinging nettle - Urtica dioica (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Invasive, Images, Control)

Stinging nettle

Also known as: California nettle

Although the stinging nettle has a variety of uses it is best known for its eponymous sting. It has sharp defensive hairs on its leaves and stems which will release pain-inducing chemicals when touched. Nevertheless, Dorset, England hosts an annual World Nettle Eating Championship, which started with a debate between two farmers over the severity of their nettle infestations. To consume them more safely, stinging nettles must be thoroughly boiled.

Scientific classification

Species

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

30 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 mm

Flower Size

Yellow, Gold, Cream, Brown, Tan

Fruit Color

Green, White, Cream

Flower Color

Green, Cream

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Stinging nettle

Distribution of Stinging nettle

Distribution Map

The stinging nettle is native to Europe, Asia and western North Africa, occurring in various ecosystems. It has been naturalized in many parts of the world. It is considered invasive in Oceania and Australia, as well as in Chile, Argentina, and the state of Virginia (USA). It's generally considered a weed because of its nuisance value even within its native range. It invades grasslands and urban areas.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Waste ground, Hedgerows, Woods

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Driving out negativity, Protection, pain, survival

Interesting Facts

The small town of Dorset, England, hosts World Nettle Eating Championship, an eating competition where competitors try to eat as much raw stinging nettle as possible. This somehow bizarre annual event draws thousands of visitors to Dorset each year.

Name Story

Stinging nettle: Its leaves and stems look hairy because they have a lot of prickles on them. When they are in contact with the human body, they can cause a tingling sensation like needles, and even lead to contact dermatitis. Since they belong to the Urtica genus, they are called stinging nettle.

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Toxicity

Stinging nettle is moderately toxic to dogs and cats, causing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain upon ingestion of its leaves. In humans, stinging nettle can cause skin irritation when touched and gastrointestinal issues if ingested. Avoid during pregnancy and with diabetes or hypertension medication due to adverse reactions. Immediate veterinary care is recommended for affected pets.

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Weed Control

Native to Eurasia and northern Africa, stinging nettle is commonly found across the temperate world. It is categorized as an invasive species in Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, and Chile. Even within its native range, stinging nettle is seen as a nuisance, due in large part to the stinging hairs found all over the plant. These stings can cause welts, inflammation, and severe irritation if touched. The plant is also toxic if ingested, as it causes irritation to the kidneys. Stinging nettle spreads aggressively, and is difficult to root out due to its voluminous root masses.

How to Control It

The best season for the removal of stinging nettle is in the spring before the plant has had a chance to flower and set seed. Here are some suitable methods to control this plant:

Hand-pulling: Wear thick gloves and a long-sleeved shirt to protect your skin from the plant's stinging hairs. Gently pull the plant from the ground, ensuring that you remove the entire root system to prevent regrowth. Dispose of the plants in a sealed bag to avoid the spread of seeds.
Smothering: Cover the stinging nettle area with a thick layer of newspapers, cardboard, or landscape fabric. This method deprives the plant of sunlight and minimizes its ability to grow. Maintain the cover for a few seasons to ensure the complete death of stinging nettle.
Organic Herbicides: Spray a vinegar-based or citrus oil-based organic herbicide directly onto stinging nettle. These natural solutions can help control the growth of the plant without harming the environment. Always follow the product's directions for the best results.
Crop Rotation: If stinging nettle is a recurring problem in your garden, consider rotating your crops. Certain plants, like potatoes, can suppress stinging nettle growth.
Digging: Dig out the stinging nettle with a garden hoe or fork, making sure to get as much of the root system as possible. Remember to wear protective clothing to avoid the sting.

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Quickly Identify Stinging nettle

Heart-shaped, serrated leaves with fine hairs and stinging hairs.

Wiry stems with square cross-sections and stinging hairs, reaching up to 9 feet (2.7 meters).

Minute, greenish-white flowers in dense clusters, less than 1/8 inch (3 mm) in diameter.

Oval-shaped achenes with smooth texture, 1-2 millimeters long, greenish to brownish.

Oppositely arranged, egg-shaped leaves, 1-6 inches (2.5-15 cm) long, saw-toothed margins.

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Care Guide for Stinging nettle

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Stinging nettle thrives in moisture-rich environments and prefers consistent soil hydration, needing weekly watering. Moderately drought-tolerant, it flourishes when soil moisture mimics its native habitat. As an herbaceous perennial, stinging nettle adapts well to both outdoor and container growth with careful watering.

Propagation: Stinging nettle propagates easily by sowing in spring. Moderate difficulty with root cuttings and division. Success is shown by new leaf growth. Use moist, well-draining soil for optimal health.

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Images of Stinging nettle

Distribution of Stinging nettle

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Quickly Identify Stinging nettle

Care Guide for Stinging nettle

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