Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

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.