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Description
Urtica Gracilenta, commonly known as the slender nettle, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Urticaceae family. It is native to Europe and parts of Asia and is often found growing in damp, shady areas such as woodlands or along riverbanks. The plant can grow up to 70cm in height and has a spread of around 50cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Genus | Urtica |
Appearance
The leaves of Urtica Gracilenta are lance-shaped and have serrated edges. They are a bright green color and can grow up to 10cm long. The stems are thin and covered in small hairs that can cause skin irritation if touched. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-white in color and grow in clusters.
Care Guide
Urtica Gracilenta prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It can tolerate full sun but may require additional watering in hot, dry conditions. Fertilize the plant with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in the spring and again in the summer. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 4-8 and can withstand temperatures as low as -30°C.
Common Pests & Diseases
Urtica Gracilenta is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions or overcrowded conditions. Spider mites and aphids may also be a problem, especially if the plant is stressed due to drought or poor growing conditions.
Habitat
Urtica Gracilenta is found growing in damp, shady areas such as woodlands or along riverbanks. It is native to Europe and parts of Asia but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Australia.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Urtica Gracilenta be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and provide adequate drainage.
Q: Is Urtica Gracilenta edible?
A: Yes, the plant’s leaves are edible and can be cooked or eaten raw. However, they should be harvested before the plant flowers and should be boiled or steamed to remove the stinging hairs.
Q: How often should Urtica Gracilenta be watered?
A: The plant prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially in hot, dry conditions. However, it should not be overwatered as this can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the best time of year to prune Urtica Gracilenta?
A: The plant should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Urtica Dioica
- Urtica Urens
- Urtica Pilulifera
References
- “Urtica Gracilenta.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science.
- “Slender Nettle.” Royal Horticultural Society.
- “Urtica Gracilenta.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
