Water
The Giant Stinging Tree prefers consistently moist soil but not waterlogged conditions. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid issues.
Also known as Devil Nettle
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Giant Stinging Tree (Dendrocnide excelsa) is a large rainforest tree known for its stinging hairs that cause severe pain and irritation on contact.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-25°C. Protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Feed with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season; reduce in winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
Contact with the stinging hairs causes a painful rash. Ingestion of fruits can cause illness.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
The Giant Stinging Tree prefers consistently moist soil but not waterlogged conditions. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering during cooler months to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid issues.
Prune to maintain shape and size, and to remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. This can be done anytime, but early spring before new growth begins is ideal.
Always wear protective gloves and clothing when pruning.
Propagate from seeds sown in spring or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Seeds require warmth and consistent moisture to germinate. Cuttings should be placed in a well-draining medium and kept humid.
Repot young plants annually in spring, moving them to a slightly larger pot. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Handle with extreme caution due to stinging hairs.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Giant Stinging Tree (Dendrocnide excelsa)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Genus | Dendrocnide |
| Species | Dendrocnide excelsa |
Similar in genus Dendrocnide
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
