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Description
Pipturus Argenteus, commonly referred to as the Silver Nettle, is a small shrub that belongs to the nettle family. It is native to the Pacific Islands, including Hawaii, and can be found growing in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The plant is characterized by its silvery leaves and stems, which are covered in fine, soft hairs. The Silver Nettle produces small, greenish-white flowers in the summer and fall, which are followed by tiny, edible fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Genus | Pipturus |
Appearance
The Silver Nettle is a small shrub that typically grows to be about 3-6 feet tall and wide. Its leaves are heart-shaped and silvery in color, with a soft, velvety texture. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem and can grow up to 5 inches long. The stem of the plant is also silvery in color and covered in fine, soft hairs. The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers in the summer and fall, which are followed by tiny, edible fruits that are about the size of a pea.
Care Guide
Water: The Silver Nettle prefers well-drained soil and regular watering. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season.Soil: The Silver Nettle prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it is important to avoid soil that is constantly wet.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full sun exposure, but it can also tolerate some shade.Hardiness Zones: The Silver Nettle is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Silver Nettle is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet, so it is important to avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The Silver Nettle is native to the Pacific Islands, including Hawaii, and can be found growing in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It is often found growing in open areas, such as fields, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant prefers well-drained soil and partial to full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Silver Nettle poisonous?
A: No, the Silver Nettle is not poisonous. In fact, the plant is edible and the tiny fruits can be eaten raw or cooked.Q: Can the Silver Nettle be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Silver Nettle can be grown indoors as a houseplant. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-drained soil.Q: Can the Silver Nettle be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Silver Nettle can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be planted in well-drained soil and kept moist until they begin to root.Q: How often should the Silver Nettle be pruned?
A: The Silver Nettle can be pruned as needed to maintain its shape and size. It is best to prune the plant in the spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Pipturus Albidus
- Pipturus Incanus
- Pipturus Neglectus
- Pipturus Tripartitus
References
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2021). Pipturus argenteus (silver nettle). Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FP/FP58400.pdf
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Pipturus argenteus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b676
- Encyclopedia of Life. (2021). Pipturus argenteus. Retrieved from https://eol.org/pages/1115193
