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Description
Dendrocnide Urentissima, also known as the stinging tree, is a plant species native to Australia. It is a large shrub or small tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall. The leaves are heart-shaped and can be up to 15 centimeters long. The plant is covered in tiny hairs that release a toxin when touched, causing extreme pain that can last for weeks or even months. It is considered to be one of the most venomous plants in the world.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Genus | Dendrocnide |
Appearance
The stinging tree has a distinctive appearance with heart-shaped leaves that are green and slightly furry. The plant is covered in fine hairs called trichomes that are barely visible to the naked eye. These hairs contain a toxin that causes a painful sting when touched. The stems of the plant are covered in spines that can be up to 5 millimeters long. The tree produces small, greenish-white flowers that are followed by small, black fruit.
Care Guide
The stinging tree is not recommended for cultivation due to its dangerous nature. However, if you do decide to grow it, here are some care tips:- Water: The stinging tree prefers moist soil but can tolerate dry conditions.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The stinging tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun.- Hardiness Zones: The stinging tree is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The stinging tree is not known to have any major pests or diseases. However, it is important to handle the plant with care as the stinging hairs can cause injury.
Habitat
The stinging tree is native to rainforests in Australia. It is found in Queensland and New South Wales and grows in wet, shady areas. The plant is also found in other countries such as Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and Malaysia.
Question and Answer
Q: What should I do if I come into contact with a stinging tree?
A: If you come into contact with a stinging tree, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. The pain from the sting can be severe and can last for weeks or even months.
Q: Can the stinging tree be grown indoors?
A: The stinging tree is not recommended for indoor cultivation due to its large size and dangerous nature.
Q: Is the stinging tree a threatened species?
A: The stinging tree is not considered to be a threatened species at this time.
Q: Are there any uses for the stinging tree?
A: The stinging tree has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. However, due to its dangerous nature, it is not recommended for medicinal use.
Related Plants
– Dendrocnide Moroides- Laportea Canadensis- Pilea Microphylla- Urtica Dioica
References
– “Dendrocnide Urentissima.” Australian Tropical Rainforest Plants. Accessed 12 May 2021. https://apps.lucidcentral.org/rainforest/text/entities/Dendrocnide_urentissima.htm.- “Stinging Tree (Dendrocnide Urentissima).” Queensland Government. Accessed 12 May 2021. https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/plants-animals/plants/herbarium/stinging-tree.
