Roman nettle
urtica pilulifera
Also known as: ["Roman nettle","Dwarf nettle"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its stinging hairs that cause irritation upon contact.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Urticales |
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Genus: | Urtica |
| Botanical Name: | Urtica pilulifera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade, or container with protection from intense afternoon sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months during growing season; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may reduce flowering.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light, protect from direct midday sun to avoid scorching, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
fertile, well-drained loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; thrives in moderate warmth with good air circulation.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above a leaf node, remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/damaged parts, shape evenly.
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 needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot with drainage, use fresh soil mix, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains from the bottom, ensure excess water exits the pot, water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid cold drafts, and reduce watering in cooler conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
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 the stinging effects of Urtica pilulifera. The plant's hairs can cause irritation and discomfort upon contact with a cat's sensitive skin or fur, potentially leading to localized inflammation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Dogs
Slightly ToxicSimilar to humans, dogs can experience irritation and discomfort if they come into contact with the stinging hairs of Urtica pilulifera. The plant's irritant compounds can cause localized reactions upon contact with a dog's skin or mucous membranes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Humans
Slightly ToxicUrtica pilulifera, commonly known as nettle, possesses stinging hairs that contain irritant compounds such as histamine, acetylcholine, and formic acid. Contact with these hairs can cause localized irritation and inflammation due to the release of these compounds upon contact with skin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Roman nettle edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and stems can be cooked to neutralize the stinging hairs and are used in some traditional dishes.
Q: How can I treat a nettle sting?
A: Apply a paste of baking soda and water or rub the affected area with dock leaves to soothe irritation.
Q: Does Roman nettle have any medicinal uses?
A: It has been used traditionally to treat arthritis, eczema, and other inflammatory conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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