Pendulous-flowered False Nettle (Boehmeria penduliflora)

Pendulous-flowered False Nettle

Boehmeria penduliflora

Its trailing flower racemes hang like delicate green tassels. Perennial herbaceous ornamental plant.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade, avoid intense midday direct sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25°C; tolerates light frosts down to 5°C with minimal damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Ovate to lanceolate leaves with serrated margins, dark green and slightly hairy upper surface
  • Flower: Pendulous greenish-white inflorescences in slender, drooping racemes
  • Stem: Erect, slightly hairy green stems with sparse weak branching
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist without waterlogging; mist foliage occasionally to boost humidity

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 4 weeks. Discontinue fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2 weeks, steep in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with water for root drench; avoid applying undiluted mixture to prevent root burn
Pruning
  • Remove faded flower spikes after blooming to maintain plant tidiness
  • Trim leggy stems in early spring to promote bushy, compact growth
  • Thin overcrowded foliage to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental ground cover; traditional mild anti-inflammatory herbal use in some regional practices