Canadian Wood Nettle
laportea canadensis
Also known as: ["Wood Nettle","Canadian Stinging Nettle"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to eastern North America, known for its stinging hairs and heart-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Urticales |
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Genus: | Laportea |
| Botanical Name: | Laportea canadensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shaded woodland garden or partially shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry environments, rarely needed otherwise
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid leaf burn; protect from direct midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, rich, well-draining loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good water retention but no waterlogging; avoid heavy clay soils; refresh soil every 2 years.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) acceptable in winter; avoid extreme fluctuations.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain stable temperatures; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or moist soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Maintain moisture and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional nutrient additions.
Hormone
Optional but can improve rooting success.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), container, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth; shape plant to encourage bushier growth; maintain size and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; increase frequency in hot, dry periods; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky ingredients.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or chlorosis in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or root damage if exposed to prolonged cold below 50°F.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall in temperatures above 85°F.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Laportea canadensis may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation, similar to dogs, due to the plant's irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Laportea canadensis by dogs can cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's irritant compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicLaportea canadensis, commonly known as Canadian wood nettle, contains histamine and other compounds that can cause irritation upon contact. Ingestion can lead to mild gastrointestinal distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Laportea canadensis safe to touch?
A: No, it has stinging hairs that can cause skin irritation upon contact.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Canadian Wood Nettle?
A: It has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory properties and as a topical treatment for joint pain.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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