Annual nettle
Urtica urens · Urticaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant annual nettle: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- May to October (discreet greenish flowers)
- Adult size
- 20 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (zones 3 to 10)
- Origin
- Europe, Asia Minor and North Africa
- Soil type
- Fertile, well-drained, tolerant
Care
Watering
Burning nettle appreciates moist but not waterlogged soil. Water regularly during active growth periods, especially in dry conditions. Once established, it tolerates drought well thanks to its powerful root system. Avoid standing water which promotes rot.
Light exposure
Place this nettle in sun or partial shade, ideally in a bright location. It develops vigorously in full light and produces more robust foliage. In complete shade, growth slows but it survives adequately.
Pruning and cutting
Cut or mow the nettle regularly to control its development and prevent it from becoming invasive. Cutting encourages a bushier habit. Wear long-sleeved gloves when handling: the stinging hairs cause itching.
Soil and amendments
Burning nettle prefers fertile soil well-supplied with organic matter. However, it will tolerate impoverished soils and establish itself rapidly there. Incorporate well-decomposed compost before planting to optimize growth.
Fertilizing
This species doesn't require regular fertilizing. An application of compost or balanced fertilizer in spring is quite sufficient. In poor soil, a light application will stimulate vegetation, but nettle manages with very little.
Diseases and pests
Burning nettle is naturally very resistant to diseases and pests. No major health concerns to fear. Its vigor allows it to overcome environmental stress without intervention.
Did you know?
Burning nettle was once intentionally cultivated in medieval and monastic gardens, not only for its medicinal properties, but also as a source of textile fibers: the leaves contain an exploitable fibrous texture. Furthermore, the stinging hairs of this plant contain formic acid and histamine, the same substances found in the venom of certain ants, which explains the immediate burning sensation upon contact.
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
- Slender nettleUrtica gracilis
- Baby tearsSoleirolia soleirolii
- RockweedPilea microphylla
- Wall pellitoryParietaria officinalis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.