Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Stinging Tree (Dendrocnide peltata) is a fast-growing rainforest tree known for its stinging hairs, causing severe skin irritation upon contact. Native to Southeast Asia.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect light
75% intensity
Can tolerate partial shade, but direct sun can scorch leaves.
Keep consistently moist
75% intensity
Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Warm temperatures
75% intensity
Ideal range is 20-30°C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C.
Moderate feeding
50% intensity
Fertilize monthly during the growing season with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains stinging hairs (trichomes) that inject a potent neurotoxin causing severe pain, itching, swelling, and sometimes more severe systemic effects in humans and pets.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Dendrocnide peltata prefers consistently moist soil. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly during cooler, dormant periods, but do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
Prune Dendrocnide peltata to maintain shape and size, and to remove any dead or damaged branches. Use sharp, clean pruning tools.
The best time for major pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Wear protective gloves and clothing.
Propagation is typically done by stem cuttings. Take cuttings of about 10-15 cm from healthy stems in spring or early summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
Plant in a well-draining potting mix and keep consistently moist and warm.
Repot Dendrocnide peltata every 2-3 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repotting is best done in spring before the active growing season begins. Handle with extreme care 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 Stinging Tree (Dendrocnide peltata)
Where Stinging Tree (Dendrocnide peltata) 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 | Dendrocnide |
| Species | Dendrocnide peltata |
Similar in genus Dendrocnide
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
