Also known as Scratchbush · Stinging Nettle · West Indian Wood Nettle
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans. See toxicity details.
West Indian Woodnettle (Laportea aestuans) is a stinging nettle found in the tropics and subtropics, known for its urticating hairs and weedy nature.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allow top inch to dry slightly between waterings.
Rich, moist, well-drained soil
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below 10°C.
Low
25% intensity
Feed with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains stinging hairs which cause irritation and rash upon contact.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months or if the plant is in a dormant state.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to remove any dead, damaged, or leggy stems. Pinch back tips to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning can be done anytime, but it's best to do it in spring before the main growth spurt or after flowering.
Propagate from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in moist, well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light.
Roots typically form within a few weeks.
Repot young plants annually in spring, or when they become root-bound. Mature plants can be repotted every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of West Indian Woodnettle (Laportea aestuans)
Where West Indian Woodnettle (Laportea aestuans) 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 | Laportea |
| Species | Laportea aestuans |
Similar in genus Laportea
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
