Membranous nettle
urtica membranacea
Also known as: ["Hairy nettle","Small nettle"]
Overview
A species of nettle native to the Mediterranean region, known for its stinging hairs and membranous leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Urticales |
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Genus: | Urtica |
| Botanical Name: | Urtica membranacea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon heat
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reducing to every 10–14 days in dormancy
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; thrives in moderate humidity.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on plant growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), container, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove yellow or dead leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth; encourage bushier habit; maintain shape and size.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently remove plant; inspect roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss for fertility; mix perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf drop or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater if necessary; insulate pots with bubble wrap in cold climates.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are also susceptible to irritation from the stinging hairs of Urtica membranacea. The hairs contain irritants that can cause discomfort and inflammation upon contact with the skin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Dogs
Slightly ToxicSimilar to humans, dogs can experience irritation if they come into contact with the stinging hairs of Urtica membranacea. The hairs inject irritants that cause a localized reaction.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Humans
Slightly ToxicUrtica membranacea, commonly known as a type of nettle, possesses stinging hairs that contain irritant compounds. Upon contact with skin, these hairs can inject histamine and other chemicals, causing a localized inflammatory response.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Urtica membranacea safe to touch?
A: No, it has stinging hairs that can cause irritation upon contact.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of this plant?
A: It has been used traditionally to treat joint pain and skin conditions.
Q: How does this plant grow?
A: It thrives in moist, nutrient-rich soils and partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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