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Description
Laportea Canadensis, also known as Canadian wood nettle, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the nettle family Urticaceae. It is native to North America and can be found growing in moist woodlands, along streams and rivers, and in other shady areas. The plant has a long history of use as a food and medicine by various indigenous peoples.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Genus | Laportea |
Appearance
Laportea Canadensis can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a bushy, spreading growth habit. The leaves are alternate, simple, and toothed, with a heart-shaped base and pointed tip. They are 3-8 inches long and 2-5 inches wide, and have a rough texture. The stem and leaves are covered with small, stinging hairs that can cause skin irritation. The flowers are small and greenish-white, and are borne in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruit is a small, round nutlet that is covered in stiff hairs.
Care Guide
Laportea Canadensis is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can grow in a variety of soil types. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial to full shade. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week or as needed.- Fertilization: Laportea Canadensis does not require fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring if desired.- Soil: The plant prefers soil that is rich in organic matter and well-draining.- Sunlight: Laportea Canadensis prefers partial to full shade, but can tolerate some sun if the soil is kept moist.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Laportea Canadensis is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:- Japanese beetles: These beetles can skeletonize the leaves of the plant. Handpick them off or use an insecticidal soap.- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves of the plant. Use organic slug and snail bait or handpick them off.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. Use a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Laportea Canadensis is native to North America and can be found growing in moist woodlands, along streams and rivers, and in other shady areas. It prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and well-draining.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Laportea Canadensis edible?
A: Yes, Laportea Canadensis is edible. The young leaves can be cooked and eaten like spinach, and the seeds can be roasted and ground into flour.
Q: Is Laportea Canadensis invasive?
A: No, Laportea Canadensis is not considered invasive.
Q: Can Laportea Canadensis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Laportea Canadensis can be grown in a container as long as it has enough room to spread out and the soil is kept moist.
Q: Can Laportea Canadensis be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Laportea Canadensis can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Laportea Canadensis:- Urtica dioica (stinging nettle)- Pilea pumila (clearweed)- Boehmeria cylindrica (false nettle)
References
– “Laportea canadensis (L.) Wedd.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 9 March 2021, http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:834809-1.- “Laportea canadensis.” Illinois Wildflowers, John Hilty. Accessed 9 March 2021, http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/woodland/plants/can_wood_nettle.htm.- “Laportea canadensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, Accessed 9 March 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d358.
