Stinging Nettle
Urtica dioica
Also known as
California Nettle, European Nettle, Common Nettle, Giant Nettle, Nettle, Slender Nettle, Tall Nettle, Big-Sting Nettle, Wild Nettle
Photo by byzantium_lilac1 (All rights reserved)
Full Sun
Easy care
Moderate watering
Tender
H7-H2
RHS hardiness
-20°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
2m | Max | |
30cm | Min | 50cm |
Flowering
-
spring
-
summer
-
autumn
-
winter
This plant has no fragrance
More images of Stinging Nettle
Stinging Nettle Overview
Nettles are herbaceous, perennial plants, tall growing in the summer and dying down to the ground in winter. They are rich in vitamins A and C, iron, potassium, manganese and calcium. Leaves and stems are cooked and eaten like spinach, while the leaves are also dried and may then be used to make a herbal tea, as can also be done with the nettle's flowers.
Common problems with Stinging Nettle
Generally problem free
How to harvest Stinging Nettle
Harvest leaves and stems before flowering
How to propagate Stinging Nettle
Seed
Sow seed into trays with loose mix, in spring or autumn
Cuttings
Plant 10cm long Stolons, with buds in late winter at a depth of 5–7cm. Root shoot tip cuttings from spring to early summer, treat with rooting hormone
Division
Division of roots in spring.
Special features of Stinging Nettle
Attracts useful insects
Attracts beneficial insects including butterflies
Other uses of Stinging Nettle
Wildflower/meadow, culinary, tea, medicinal
Medicinal
As a tea is used to treat disorders of the kidneys and urinary tract, gastrointestinal tract, locomotor system, skin, cardiovascular system, hemorrhage, influenza, rheumatism, and gout
Edible
Soaking stinging nettles in water or cooking removes the stinging chemicals from the plant, which allows them to be handled and eaten without injury
