Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Also known as: California nettle

Despite its various uses, the stinging nettle is most famous for its painful sting. This plant has tiny, sharp hairs on its leaves and stems that release irritating chemicals upon contact. Interestingly, Dorset, England holds an annual World Nettle Eating Championship, originating from a dispute between two farmers about their nettle problems. To safely eat stinging nettles, they need to be well-boiled to neutralize the sting.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Stinging nettle

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

40 cm to 1 m

Spread

30 cm to 90 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 mm

Flower Color

Green White Cream

Images of Stinging nettle

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.

Scientific Classification of Stinging nettle

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Rosales

Family

Nettle

Genus

Urtica

Species

Stinging nettle

Planting and Growing of Stinging nettle

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Terracotta

How to Water Stinging nettle?

For Urtica dioica, or stinging nettle, the ideal watering amount ensures that the soil is moist but not soggy. This plant prefers to have its soil consistently damp without waterlogging, aiming for about 250 milliliters per watering session. It's important that the water reaches the root system thoroughly but drainage is equally critical to prevent standing water.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Stinging nettle? ›

What should I do if my Stinging nettle is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Stinging nettle? ›

How to save an overwatered Stinging nettle? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Stinging nettle?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 3-6 hours sunlight

Partial sunlight, ranging from 3-6 hours, is ideal for Urtica dioica, promoting healthy foliage and robust growth while preventing the deleterious effects of overly bright conditions.

Optimal Location for Urtica dioica ›

Amount of Light Required ›

Monitoring Light Conditions ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Stinging nettle?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is between 60°F and 75°F. This range provides the optimal environment for growth, promoting healthy foliage and vibrant color. Within this temperature span, the plant's metabolic processes function efficiently, leading to improved nutrient uptake and greater resistance to pests and diseases.

What Soil is Best for Stinging nettle?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Urtica dioica thrives in soil that is rich in nutrients, enabling it to grow rapidly and produce lush foliage. This nutrient density supports its common use in composting and as a natural fertilizer, aiding in holistic garden health. The plant prefers soils that offer good drainage to prevent root rot. Well-drained soil helps avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root diseases, ensuring that the plant remains healthy and vigorous. Urtica dioica needs soil that retains moisture without becoming soggy. This balanced moisture means the plant can access water as required, fostering resilience during dry spells and reducing stress.

How to Fertilize Stinging nettle?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Urtica dioica does not need heavy fertilization. When applying liquid fertilizer, use a half-strength all-purpose formula to ensure the plant receives nutrients without overfeeding. Typically, about 1 tablespoon per gallon of water is sufficient.

How to Prune Stinging nettle?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Start by wearing gloves to protect your skin from the stinging hairs. Use sharp garden scissors or pruners to cut back the nettle stems by about one-third to promote a more compact shape and encourage new growth. Focus on removing any dead or damaged stems to maintain plant health. Prune monthly to manage plant size and spread. If you wish to propagate the plant, select healthy stems and cut them back to about six inches in length. Remove the lower leaves and plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and in indirect sunlight until roots form and the new nettle plants are ready to transfer to a garden plot.

How to Propagate Stinging nettle plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Begin by preparing a well-draining soil mix for planting seeds or divisions. The soil should be rich in organic matter and slightly moist. Till the soil to at least 12 inches depth to loosen it, ensuring better root penetration and growth.

Sow the Urtica dioica seeds in seed trays filled with potting mix. The seeds need light to germinate, so lightly press them into the soil without covering them. Ensure the trays receive ample indirect sunlight to support even germination.

For division propagation, dig up the plant carefully and find natural breaking points in the rhizome. Use a sharp spade to separate healthy sections with roots attached, and replant them immediately in prepared garden beds or pots.

How to Repot Stinging nettle plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2 years

Urtica dioica signals its need for repotting when you notice roots protruding from the drainage holes or when growth significantly slows down despite proper care. Spring or early summer is the perfect time to repot as the plant is in its active growth phase, allowing it to recover and establish quickly in its new pot.

Select a pot that is only one size larger than the current one, with adequate drainage holes to prevent water stagnation. A slightly larger pot helps control root growth, encouraging healthier foliage while reducing the risk of waterlogging which could harm the plant.

Use a well-drained potting mix that retains some moisture but drains excess water easily, which is essential for Urtica dioica as it prefers moist but not waterlogged conditions. Incorporating compost can enhance nutrient content, supporting robust growth and vibrant foliage.

Toxicity of Stinging nettle

Is Stinging nettle toxic to cat?

Stinging nettle is known to have a moderate level of toxicity for cats, and exposure typically happens when they ingest the plant. The most toxic components are mainly the leaves, which can lead to discomfort or illness in cats if consumed. Should a cat show symptoms of distress after encountering stinging nettle, it is crucial to pursue prompt veterinary attention in order to address the potential health impacts of this poisoning.

Is Stinging nettle toxic to dog?

The plant species known as stinging nettle is regarded as having a moderate degree of toxicity for dogs. Dogs can experience poisoning primarily through the consumption of this plant. When a dog eats parts of the stinging nettle, especially the leaves, which are recognized as toxic, it may display symptoms indicating poisoning. Potential symptoms include, but are not restricted to, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and excessive salivation. It is essential for dog owners to keep a close watch on their pets and prevent them from chewing or consuming any portion of the stinging nettle. If a dog comes into contact with or ingests the leaves of stinging nettle, it is crucial to seek prompt veterinary assistance to ensure appropriate treatment and management of any possible toxic effects.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Toxic Techniques→