Slender nettle
Urtica gracilis · Urticaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant slender nettle: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September
- Adult size
- 60 to 150 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20°C)
- Origin
- North America
- Soil type
- Rich, well-drained, prefers moisture
Care
Exposure
Tall nettle thrives in sun or partial shade. It will even tolerate part shade, though flowering will be more abundant in full light. Avoid exposures that are too dry and hot, as these would shorten its lifespan.
Watering
Keep the soil regularly moist during growth, especially in summer. Water moderately in autumn and winter. Tall nettle appreciates soils that don't dry out completely, but avoid root rot from prolonged waterlogging.
Soil
Rich organic soil, well-structured and slightly drained is ideal. You can amend the soil with compost or well-decomposed manure before planting. Tall nettle tolerates various pH levels but prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soils.
Pruning and cutting
Remove faded stems after flowering to promote a compact appearance and potentially encourage a second bloom. In late autumn, cut the plant back to ground level before winter. Wear thick gloves when handling due to the stinging hairs.
Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer application in spring is generally sufficient. If the soil is depleted, diluted fertilizer every 6 weeks during the growth period will support vigor and flowering. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would promote foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and pests
Tall nettle is generally robust and rarely affected by serious diseases. Watch for aphids and mites in very dry conditions. Good air circulation and watering at the base reduce the risk of rot or mildew.
Did you know?
Nettle has long been a staple in vegetable and flower gardens: it was once cultivated not only for its recognized medicinal properties, but also because its fibers allowed the making of rustic fabrics. Beyond its notorious stinging reputation, tall nettle attracts many pollinating insects and predators, making it a valuable ally for garden biodiversity.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Chinese money plantPilea peperomioides
- Stinging nettleUrtica dioica
- Annual nettleUrtica urens
- Baby tearsSoleirolia soleirolii
- RockweedPilea microphylla
- Wall pellitoryParietaria officinalis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.