Small Nettle - Urtica urens (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Small Nettle

Also known as: Dog nettle, Annual nettle

Small Nettle (Urtica urens) is a herbaceous annual flowering nettle known by many common names. Small Nettle is also called the dog nettle or burning nettle because it "bites" when touching (in the same way as stinging nettle). Small Nettle is native to the Eurasian continent. Butterfly species feed on this plant.

Scientific classification

Species

Small Nettle (Urtica urens)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Annual, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

10 cm to 60 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

2 mm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

White, Green, Yellow

Flower Color

Images of Small Nettle

Distribution of Small Nettle

Distribution Map

Small Nettle is native to temperate regions across Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. It has a broad native range that includes the Mediterranean basin and extends northwards into Scandinavia and eastwards to China. Introduced to various locales, small Nettle has established itself in parts of North and South America, sub-Saharan Africa, and Oceania. It thrives across continents, from temperate to tropical climates, showing a high adaptability to different environments.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Cultivated land, waste places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Exorcism, Protection, Healing

Interesting Facts

Small Nettle is said to sting or burn more than the common Stinging nettle. Like its larger cousin, small Nettle is an important food plant for butterfly caterpillars of various species - most notably small tortoiseshell butterfly (Aglais urticae) in Europe, and New Zealand red admiral, and yellow admiral butterfly (Vanessa gonerilla and Vanessa itea, respectively) in New Zealand.

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Toxicity

Small Nettle causes mild to moderate irritation through its tiny hairs. Contact can lead to a stinging sensation for a few hours and pain up to 36 hours. Toxic to cats and dogs, ingestion can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. Prompt veterinary care is essential to treat poisoning effects in pets. Prevent pet access to small Nettle for safety.

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Weed Control

Small Nettle is a weed that grows throughout most of the United States, primarily in the west but some states in the northeast and New England. It appears in crop fields, orchards, and vineyards, so it is a troublesome weed in numerous agricultural contexts. In the state of Alaska, small Nettle is considered an invasive species. The weed is a problem as it displaces native vegetation and has the ability to irritate the skin through the bristles on its leaves and stems that give off a substance causing a strong burning sensation. Curtail spread by removing plants by hand (wear gloves) or using a hoe or herbicides.

How to Control It

The best time to control 'small Nettle' is during early spring before it starts flowering and setting seeds. The growth momentum of 'small Nettle' will be at its minimum this time, making it the best for uprooting or destroying. Here are some organic ways to manage 'small Nettle':

Hand-Pulling: This is the most basic and direct method. Grab the 'small Nettle' at its base and pull out as much of the root system as you can. Make sure to wear gloves, as the plant contains irritants.
Mowing: Regular mowing before 'small Nettle' flowers can prevent it from setting seeds. This method will need consistency as it just reduces growth not eradicates it.
Smothering: Cover the infested area with several layers of thick and light-blocking materials such as newspapers or old carpets. This will cut off the sunlight, thereby preventing 'small Nettle' growth.
Organic Herbicides: Use an organic, non-selective herbicide such as vinegar-based solutions for spot treatment. Make sure to strictly follow the application instructions to avoid damaging non-target plants.
Introduce Predators: Some insects and bugs, like nettle ground bugs, feed on nettles. By introducing these predators to your garden, you can naturally control the growth of 'small Nettle'.

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Care Guide for Small Nettle

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Small Nettle prefers environments similar to its native, moisture-rich habitat. It requires consistent soil moisture, is moderately drought-tolerant, and thrives with weekly watering. Typically grown outdoors, small Nettle benefits from natural rainfall. During the growing season, maintain evenly moist soil without saturation.

Propagation: The best method to propagate small Nettle is by sowing seeds in Spring. Successful germination and strong seedling growth indicate effective propagation. Use well-draining soil and maintain consistent moisture for optimal growth conditions.

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Images of Small Nettle

Distribution of Small Nettle

Culture

Toxicity

Weed Control

Care Guide for Small Nettle

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