Stinging nettle is a dangerous plant. It is dangerous to handle. When contact is made with the plant, the bristly hairs on the stems break off and inject irritating compounds into the skin, causing symptoms including redness, itchiness, and burning. Complications from contact can last for up to 24 hours. This plant spreads by seed, but can also reproduce via underground rhizomes. Stinging nettle prefers wet areas, growing in places such as riparian zones, marshes, and bogs, as well as disturbed sites. Urtica dioica includes both native and introduced subspecies. The European subspecies is found along both U.S. coasts and some areas of the Midwest and Southeast. The native subspecies is found throughout most of the United States and Canada.
More Information
Size and Method of Spreading
Stinging nettle reaches heights between 2 to 6 feet. It is an erect, relatively unbranched plant. The stems are square and covered with stinging hairs.
Leaf Description
The simple, opposite leaves of stinging nettle are light green, and have an elongated shape (elliptic) and a pointed tip. The edges have sharp teeth (serrated margins), and small, stinging hairs can be found along the veins on one or both leaf surfaces. The veins on the upper leaf surface are deeply impressed.
Flower Description
The inconspicuous flowers of stinging nettle range from a near-translucent white to light green. They are borne in elongated, spikelike clusters surrounding the stem and are about 4 inches long. Male and female flowers may be on separate plants (dioecious) or on separate structures on the same plant (monoecious). Flowering can occur throughout the summer.
Fruit Description
The fruit is small and one-seeded (achene). It is light green, and turns to a dark brown as it dries and matures, typically throughout the fall.
General Management
For more information on management of this plant, contact The Morton Arboretum Plant Clinic (630-719-2424 or plantclinic@mortonarb.org).
