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Description
Urtica Dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Urticaceae. It is indigenous to Europe, Asia, and North America and can grow up to six feet tall. The plant has a square stem and its leaves are opposite and serrated, with fine hairs that contain histamines and other chemicals that cause irritation and stinging upon contact with human skin. Despite its painful sting, Urtica Dioica has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat various health conditions such as arthritis, allergies, and urinary tract infections.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Genus | Urtica |
Appearance
Urtica Dioica has green leaves that grow up to 15 centimeters long and 6 centimeters wide. The leaves are deeply serrated and have a heart-shaped base. The plant’s stem is covered in fine hairs that can cause a painful sting upon contact. Urtica Dioica produces small green flowers that bloom in the summer and can grow up to 3 millimeters in diameter. The plant’s fruit is a small, dry, and single-seeded nutlet.
Care Guide
Urtica Dioica thrives in moist and fertile soil and requires regular watering. The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if provided with sufficient moisture. Fertilization is recommended during the growing season to promote healthy growth. The plant is hardy in zones 3-10 and can survive temperatures as low as -40°F. Pruning is not necessary, but deadheading the flowers can encourage new growth.
Common Pests & Diseases
Urtica Dioica is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be prevented by providing adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Urtica Dioica is commonly found in moist woodland areas, along riverbanks, and in disturbed habitats such as abandoned fields and roadsides. The plant prefers nutrient-rich soil and can grow in both acidic and alkaline conditions. It is also commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant and for its medicinal properties.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Urtica Dioica safe to touch?
A: No, the plant’s leaves contain histamines and other chemicals that can cause irritation and stinging upon contact with human skin.
Q: What is Urtica Dioica used for?
A: Urtica Dioica has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat various health conditions such as arthritis, allergies, and urinary tract infections.
Q: What kind of soil does Urtica Dioica prefer?
A: Urtica Dioica prefers moist and fertile soil that is nutrient-rich and well-draining.
Q: What hardiness zone is Urtica Dioica suitable for?
A: Urtica Dioica is hardy in zones 3-10 and can survive temperatures as low as -40°F.
Related Plants
- Urtica Urens (Dwarf Nettle)
- Urtica Pilulifera (Roman Nettle)
- Urtica Ferox (Ongaonga)
- Laportea Canadensis (Wood Nettle)
References
- “Urtica dioica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282767&isprofile=0&basic=urtica%20dioica
- “Stinging Nettle.” University of Maryland Medical Center. https://www.umms.org/ummc/health/medical/altmed/herb/stinging-nettle
- “Urtica dioica.” Plant Database. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Urtica+dioica
