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Description
Boehmeria Virgata Subsp. Macrophylla, commonly known as False Nettle, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the nettle family Urticaceae. The plant is native to North America and is found in wetlands, swamps, meadows, and along streams. The False Nettle has a height of 1-3 feet and a spread of 1-2 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Genus | Boehmeria |
Appearance
The False Nettle has dark green leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem. The leaves are elliptical in shape and have a serrated edge. The plant produces small greenish-white flowers that are arranged in clusters. The flowers appear in late spring to early summer and are followed by small fruits that turn brown when mature. The False Nettle has a bushy appearance and can be grown as a ground cover.
Care Guide
The False Nettle prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types but prefers a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The False Nettle is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The False Nettle is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. To prevent these diseases, ensure that the plant has good air circulation, avoid overwatering, and remove infected plant parts.
Habitat
The False Nettle is native to North America and is found in wetlands, swamps, meadows, and along streams. The plant prefers moist soil and partial shade to full sun. It can be grown in gardens, borders, and as a ground cover.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the False Nettle be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the False Nettle can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize the False Nettle?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is the False Nettle invasive?
A: No, the False Nettle is not considered invasive.
Q: How do I propagate the False Nettle?
A: The False Nettle can be propagated by division or by stem cuttings.
Related Plants
- Boehmeria nivea
- Boehmeria cylindrica
- Boehmeria tricuspis
- Boehmeria platanifolia
References
- “Boehmeria Virgata Subsp. Macrophylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f847
- “False Nettle.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/false-nettle
- “Boehmeria Virgata Subsp. Macrophylla.” Plant Database, www.gardening.cornell.edu/homegardening/sceneb4ad.html
