About
A bushy, upright annual to 75cm, with distinctly toothed leaves and clusters of small, greenish white flowers in summer. Leaves are covered in tiny hairs that can irritate the skin, though young leaves are edible when cooked.
About the genus
A genus of annual or perennial flowering plants with arrow-shaped, serrated green foliage and small clusters of greenish-brown flowers. Many species have stinging hairs on the leaves. The foliage can be used for making tea and for medicinal purposes, and the plants provide valuable food and shelter for wildlife
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesWildlife gardens
ToxicitySkin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs): Harmful if eaten and via skin, skin/eye irritant - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrows best in full sun, in nitrogen-rich soil. Self-seeds freely and can be difficult to control but is an important source of food for butterfly and moth caterpillars. See stinging nettles for further advice
PruningCut back after flowering to avoid self-seeding
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to some fungal and virus diseases