Urtica urens aka Stinging Nettle

Urtica urens is an annual in the nettle family, Urticaceae. Its common names include small nettle and annual stinging nettle. Its native range spans Europe, Siberia and the Himalaya. It also includes northern and northeastern tropical Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It is native to Britain and Ireland. It grows in temperate regions, including farmland and waste ground.

This upright plant forms a bushy clump within one year. RHS gives a garden height of 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 m]. Its shorter description places the height near 2.5 feet [0.75 m]. Plants spread 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 m]. The leaves have clear teeth along their edges. Tiny hairs on the leaves can sting exposed skin. The foliage is deciduous. Small, pale green to white flowers grow in clusters during summer.

Full sun gives the best growth, though partial shade suits it. It favours soil rich in nitrogen. It can grow in chalk, clay, loam or sand. Acid, neutral and alkaline soils all suit it. Provide good drainage, with moist soil where possible. RHS assigns it the UK hardiness rating H2. This means it tolerates low temperatures but not freezing. Grow new plants from seed. It reaches its full size within a year.

Small nettle has value in gardens managed for wildlife. Butterfly and moth caterpillars feed on the plant. Yet it sheds seed freely and can become hard to control. Cut plants back after flowering to limit further seedlings. RHS reports few pest problems, but fungal and viral diseases may occur. The stems yield fibre for string, cloth and paper. Leaves can go into compost or soak in water for liquid feed. PFAF also records a history of herbal use. Such traditional uses do not establish safe or effective treatment.

Young leaves are edible after cooking and can go into soups. PFAF also records young shoots as an ingredient in nettle beer. Wear stout gloves when gathering or handling the plant. Cooking removes the sting from the leaves. Use only young leaves for food. Older leaves develop cystoliths, gritty particles that may irritate the kidneys. Raw plants can irritate human skin. RHS also warns that dogs may suffer harm after eating them. Contact can irritate a dog's skin or eyes.