Nettle Tree
urera baccifera
Also known as: ["Nettle Tree","Nettle-leaved Tree"]
Overview
A small tree or shrub native to tropical regions, known for its stinging hairs and small, berry-like fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Urticales |
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Genus: | Urera |
| Botanical Name: | Urera baccifera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a humid environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to maintain shape and health.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if heavily overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
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 direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extremes.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil; air layering for larger stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium or water.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–80°F (21–27°C) and high humidity.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas to improve light penetration.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth and improve air circulation.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; 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
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 thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, leaf drop, or stunted growth; buds may fail to open in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; may cause leaf discoloration or wilting; prolonged cold can lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; excessive heat can cause dehydration and stress.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
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
ToxicCats are susceptible to toxicity from Urera baccifera upon ingestion, which can cause gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation from contact with the sap. The plant's irritant compounds can lead to systemic effects in cats.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Urera baccifera by dogs can result in gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity due to the plant's irritant compounds. The sap can also cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicUrera baccifera contains toxic compounds, primarily urushiol-like substances, which can cause severe dermatitis upon contact. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress and systemic toxicity due to the presence of irritant compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Urera baccifera safe to touch?
A: No, it has stinging hairs that can cause irritation upon contact.
Q: Does Urera baccifera produce edible fruits?
A: The fruits are not typically consumed by humans due to their stinging hairs and mild toxicity.
Q: How should Urera baccifera be cared for?
A: It requires moderate care, including well-drained soil, partial shade, and protection from strong winds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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