Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica)

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Sunlight Partial to full sun; tolerates light shade in hot climates to prevent leaf scorching

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Watering Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering frequency in cool winter months

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Temperature Extremely cold-hardy to -20°C; thrives in 15–25°C and tolerates light frost

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Leaf: Opposite, ovate to lanceolate leaves with serrated margins and stinging trichomes on surfaces and veins
Flower: Small, greenish unisexual flowers arranged in dense axillary spikes
Stem: Erect, square hollow stems covered in stinging hairs

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Watering

Keep soil consistently moist; water deeply when the top 2cm of soil feels dry

Fertilization

Apply fully composted organic matter once monthly. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent excessive leggy growth

Composted banana peel tea：Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to support healthy leaf development

Pruning

Deadhead spent flower spikes to limit self-seeding if uncontrolled growth is unwanted
Cut back stems to ground level in late autumn to encourage vigorous new spring growth
Remove damaged or yellowing leaves to improve airflow and plant appearance

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; contact causes skin redness and itching, ingestion may trigger vomiting or diarrhea

Humans: Stinging trichomes cause immediate burning skin irritation; ingestion may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset

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Culture: Associated with herbal medicine folklore as a remedy for seasonal allergies and joint inflammation

Usage: Edible young leaves (cooked to neutralize stingers); herbal tea production; natural green dye source