Also known as Big-Sting Nettle · California Nettle · Common Nettle
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Urtica dioica, the great stinging nettle, is a herbaceous perennial plant with stinging hairs. It has a long history of use in food, medicine, and fiber production.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
50% intensity
Thrives in sunny locations but tolerates partial shade. More sun generally leads to more robust growth.
Consistent moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Moist, rich, well-drained soil
50% intensity
Hardy perennial
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in most temperate climates.
Low feeder
25% intensity
Generally requires little to no fertilization. A light application of compost or balanced organic fertilizer in spring is sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Stinging hairs can cause skin irritation and rash.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Urtica dioica prefers consistently moist soil. Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the soil completely dry out, as this can stress the plant.
In very hot or dry conditions, more frequent watering may be necessary to maintain optimal moisture levels.
Pruning can help manage the spread and shape of Urtica dioica. Cut back the plant in late spring or early summer to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming leggy. Remove dead or damaged stems at any time.
For harvesting, cut stems as needed.
Urtica dioica is easily propagated by division of established clumps in early spring or autumn. Seeds can also be sown directly outdoors in spring or autumn.
It readily self-seeds, so new plants often appear around the parent plant.
Repotting is generally not necessary for Urtica dioica unless grown in containers. If container-grown, repot every 2-3 years into a slightly larger pot in spring, using a well-draining potting mix.
Ensure good air circulation around the plant.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Great Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica)
Where Great Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Genus | Urtica |
| Species | Urtica dioica |
Similar in genus Urtica
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
