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Description
Urtica Incisa, commonly known as the “scrub nettle,” is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Urticaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in rocky and sandy areas, as well as in forests and shrubberies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Genus | Urtica |
Appearance
The scrub nettle can grow up to 60 cm in height, and it has a rhizomatous root system. The leaves are opposite, ovate, and toothed, with a length of up to 15 cm. The stems are square, covered with stinging hairs, and can be green or reddish-brown. The flowers are small, greenish, and arranged in clusters. The fruit is a small, dry nutlet.
Care Guide
The scrub nettle is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil, and it can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It is drought-tolerant, but it will benefit from regular watering during dry spells. Fertilization is not necessary, but it can promote growth and flowering. The scrub nettle is hardy to USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The scrub nettle is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To prevent or control these pests, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil. The scrub nettle can also be affected by fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent or control these diseases, it is recommended to keep the foliage dry and to remove any infected leaves.
Habitat
The scrub nettle is found in a variety of habitats, including rocky and sandy areas, forests, and shrubberies. It is commonly found in the Mediterranean region, but it can also be found in other parts of the world, such as Australia and South America.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I eat the scrub nettle?
A: Yes, the young leaves of the scrub nettle can be cooked and eaten, similar to spinach. However, it is important to wear gloves when handling the plant, as the stinging hairs can cause skin irritation.
Q: Is the scrub nettle a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, the scrub nettle has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties, such as treating arthritis, allergies, and urinary tract infections.
Q: How often should I water my scrub nettle?
A: The scrub nettle is drought-tolerant, but it will benefit from regular watering during dry spells. Water the plant once a week, or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Can I grow the scrub nettle indoors?
A: Yes, the scrub nettle can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight and is planted in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Urtica dioica (Common nettle)
- Urtica urens (Small nettle)
- Urtica pilulifera (Roman nettle)
References
- “Urtica incisa (Poir.) Hand.-Mazz.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science.
- “Urtica incisa.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Urtica incisa.” Australian Plant Census.
