Nettle

Scientific Classification & Quick Facts

Common name	Stinging nettle
Scientific name	Urtica dioica
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Rosales
Family	Urticaceae
Genus	Urtica
Conservation status	Least Concern
Type	Perennial herb with stinging hairs
Habitat	Moist, open ground; streams, ditches, roadsides
Native range	North America, Europe, northern Africa, Asia
Colours	Tiny whitish-green flowers
Height	1–2 m
Edible parts	Leaves, when cooked
Special feature	Hairs sting by injecting histamine

A herbaceous flowering plant, botanically known as Urtica Dioica, is also commonly referred to as Stinging Nettle or Common Nettle. It is endemic to North America, Europe, northern Africa, and Asia. This perennial plant belongs to the Urtica genus and Urticaceae family. There are six varieties in this species of plant, out of which, five have a hair-like structure referred to as a trichome which produces histamine and many chemicals that cause the plant to sting.

History

Urtica Dioica got its name from the Latin “uro” which explains the pricking characteristic of the plant. They were commonly used in traditional medication for treating allergic reactions and arthritis. It was also used as an herbal medicine at homes and as a source of food. People in ancient times used to brew a tea with its leaves which was effective as a blood purifier and cleansing tonic. In the 18th century, it was mainly used for the cases like dropsy and muscular power loss.

Anatomy

Urtica dioica is a stinging perennial plant that grows about 1 to 2 m at a fast rate. The leaves of this plant are soft and green, with fine hair growth, which produces an itching sensation when it contacts the skin. The sharp hair tips inject histamine, which causes the irritation. The leaves are arranged in an opposite manner and grows about 3 to 15 cm in length with serrated margins. Along with the leaves, the stem is also covered with the stinging hair. The roots spread underground along with rhizomes and stolons and all have a yellow shade. It is a dioecious plant which means it has only one organ, either male or female situated in the tiny whitish-green flowers.

Habitat

Stinging nettle prefers moist and open areas like an open forest, areas near streams, ditches, mountain slopes, and disturbed areas like woodland clearings, oil fields and roadsides. It can also be seen in nitrogen-rich regions like dense forests. Its natural vegetation can be found in the cold places in Europe, Asia and America. It is a hardy perennial suitable for US zone 4.

Soil for Planting

Stinging nettle grows well in rich and fertile soil as it is not self fertile. It prefers moist and highly nutrient soil, but does not do well in very acidic soil.

Planting

The best way to propagate the stinging nettle is by root division.  The root of an established plant should be cut with some leaves around it and then planted in the garden soil or in containers. It propagates and seeds in shady as well as in full sun, but the best results are seen in the latter condition. If producing by seeds, then it should be stratified before use and should be planted in late fall.

Watering

Regular watering is required in dry spells, especially the young specimen. During the germination period, watering is essential. Mulching is a great help to retain moisture in the soil.

Temperature and Humidity

Stinging nettle grows well in a cold climate. Germination takes place in a temperature of 25 degree Celsius.

Pests and Diseases

A very few pests affect the stinging plant mainly because of its toothed and sharp hairs on the body.  The most common pest seen on the leaves is the caterpillar that feeds on its foliage. Diseases affecting the plant have not been recorded.

Uses

The stinging plant has been used since long for its medicinal properties.  It has traditionally been used for urination problems, including night time urination, frequent and painful urination and irritable bladder. The leaves and the stems have traditionally been used for allergic conditions, hay fever and arthritis. The leaves are cooked and consumed in the diet. An extract of this plant is used in many hair and skin cosmetics.

Related: Butterbur

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